Bill 14, the Utility Payment Deferral Program Act, will be introduced on May 6, when the legislature reconvenes.
Government announced supportive measures to provide immediate financial relief for Albertans on March 18. Utility bill payment deferral was among the items. Residential, farm, and small commercial customers can defer bill payments for electricity and natural gas until June 18.
“Albertans are currently facing an economic one-two punch. The province’s residents and businesses are contending with the COVID-19 pandemic as well as plunging oil prices resulting from the recent OPEC price war. There’s no sugar-coating it – these are dire times for the province. Government is offering help in the form of allowing individuals and small businesses to defer some utility payments. Albertans are resilient, but we need to support those who need help most during this challenging time.”
“Bill 14, the Utility Payment Deferral Program Act, is critical legislation. This bill will allow utilities to offer electricity customers across the province much-needed financial relief, while ensuring they can continue to provide safe, reliable, and affordable electricity during these unprecedented times."
Legislation already on the order paper will also be debated when the legislature reconvenes.
Quick facts
- This program is intended for Albertans who are experiencing financial hardship as a direct result of COVID-19, such as those who have lost their employment or have had to leave work to take care of an ill family member.
- Customers need to contact their utility directly to sign up for the deferral program.
- Customers will still have to pay for their deferred electricity and natural gas bills after the program ends on June 18.