No full utility disconnections allowed until April 15 as part of province’s Winter Rules

Southern Alberta Newspapers

With the cold weather finally on its way, Alberta’s Winter Rules are designed to keep the heat on when residents need it most.

From Oct. 15 to April 15, electricity and natural gas services in Alberta cannot be fully disconnected by retailers. This also applies to any time during the year when the forecast for the next 24 hours indicates temperatures below zero degrees, the province said.

“During Alberta’s harsh winters, no one should be forced to choose between heating and eating,” Minister of Affordability and Utilities Nathan Neudorf said in a release. “We’re keeping the lights on for the most vulnerable and taking action to lower power bills for all Albertans. I encourage anyone having difficulties with their utility bill to contact the Utilities Consumer Advocate and learn what options are available.”

Customers with disconnected utilities are contacted to help get them reconnected before the cold weather hits via the Winter Utilities Reconnection program led by Utilities Consumer Advocate in partnership with the Alberta Utilities Commission, among others.

“The Winter Utilities Reconnection Program is an important protection for customers struggling with utility bills,” said Chris Hunt, utilities consumer advocate. “UCA Mediation Staff are available to help customers get energy utilities reconnected and stay safe during winter. They can be reached at 310-4822.”

Albertans who are having difficulty with paying utility bills, communicating with their retailer or making manageable payment arrangements should contact the UCA.