According to the provincial government and an energy market watcher, a combination of factors — including the summer's heat wave — have contributed to recent price increases for many Albertans. "Now, periods of extreme weather, like the heat wave, are impacting 100 per cent of the electricity market for the first time," she said. "Because they're now achieving a much higher price point than they were when those agreements were first signed," she said. Christopher Hunt, executive director and advocate of the Utilities Consumer Advocate (UCA), said Albertans worried about high bills have options. "But most Albertans also have the option of choosing a competitive retailer, who may offer a variety of fixed and variable price rate plans."

Source: CBC News August 17, 2021 13:52 UTC