Fortis set to raise electricity fees

Fortis B.C. has received interim approval from the provincial regulator for a 3.98 per cent general increase in electricity rates starting Jan. 1, 2023.

The utility says residential customers with average use will see an increase of about $7.62 a month.

Fortis says it’s very conscious that any rate increase can be a concern for customers, but it’s needed due to rising costs to purchase power in the upcoming year to serve the increasing demand.

It adds the approval by the B.C. Utilities Commission is on an “interim, refundable basis,” with a final decision expected later next year.

While much of B.C. gets its power from BC Hydro, Fortis provides electricity service for parts of the Southern Interior including Kelowna.

(The Canadian Press/CityNews)