A 5 year BC Hydro rate plan increases consumer charges nine per cent 2014 and six per cent in 2015.

In 2016 another 4 percent, in 2017 another 3.5% and in 2018 yet another 3%.

“The plan is balanced  and it’s responsible and it will keep rates as low as possible. The goal of the  10-year plan is to keep rates predictable.” says Energy Minister Bill Bennett

The first increase will hit in April equalling about an extra $8  per month for residential customers.

Electrical power in the South Okanagan is supplied by FortisBC and rate increases have been allowed by the BC Utilities Commission – with no government intervention.

The utilities commission will set any further rate increases for the  five years beyond 2018 for BC Hydro customers.