Gas customers across British Columbia will see an increase to their monthly bills starting in January.
FortisBC will increase the average residential gas customer’s bill by around $14.25 per month, based on monthly energy consumption of about 7.5 gigajoules, excluding Fort Nelson.
Residential customers in Fort Nelson will see an overall bill increase of about $14 per month based on household consumption of approximately 10 gigajoules of energy.
The organization says via press release that individual customers’ bill increases “will vary based on use.”
This increase marks the first since 2022; rates dropped in 2023 and 2024.
“We understand that rate changes may be difficult for some of our customers,” said Michelle Carman, vice president of customer service and external communications in the release. “We want to assure you that these rate adjustments are aimed at better serving your energy needs.”
FortisBC says the monthly increase will help the organization make necessary system improvements in safety and reliabilty, as well as to reduce carbon emissions.
The organization adds the rate adjustment will also allow the company to make long-term investments in a number of projects, including the Inland Gas Upgrade, Coastal Transmission System Transmission Integrity Management Capabilities, and the Patullo Gas Line Replacement.
The BC Utlilites Commission approved the rate increase on an interim basis. The Utilities Commission is in the process of reviewing ForticBC’s proposed 2025 to 2027 Rate Setting Framework, which could affect final monthly gas rates.
A decision on final rates is expected in the first half of 2025, and expected to be applied later in the year.
Something going on in the Cariboo you think people should know about?
Send us a news tip by emailing [email protected].
