Starting October 15th, until April 15th, Winter Rules for utilities will be in effect. This will ensure that residential electricity cannot be fully disconnected.
Starting November 1st, natural gas services will not be able to be fully disconnected either. These rules are meant to protect Alberta residents from critical utility cut-offs during the colder months.
In a release, Minister of Affordability and Utilities said “During Alberta’s harsh winters, having reliable home heating and power isn’t a luxury – it’s a lifeline. These protections help ensure that every Albertan has access to the vital utilities they need to keep them and their families safe and cozy, even on the coldest of nights.”
Regardless of the season, utilities are unable to be fully disconnected if the forecast falls below zero degrees within 24 hours of a planned disconnection. If you currently have disconnected utilities, you will be contacted by the Utilities Consumer Advocate or UCA to help get reconnected ahead of the winter season.
The UCA partners with the Alberta Utilities Commission, and other utility retailers, as well as Alberta Supports to assist with any reconnections.
Albertans needing help with their utility bills, or to make payment arrangements, or even have a dispute with a provider can contact the UCA at 310-4822 or ucahelps@gov.ab.ca, or by visiting the UCA website.
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