While most British Columbians who pay for their electricity will be getting a $100 utility credit in the new year, Summerland residents will see double that.
On Monday, Summerland council voted to match the Province’s one-time $100 electrical utility credit, which means residents will see a $200 rebate on their bills sometime in the first quarter of 2023.
Residential account holders will receive the District of Summerland’s one-time credit of $100 at the same time they receive the same amount from the Province.
No action needs to be taken, as they will be automatically applied to residents’ utility bills.
According to the District of Summerland, the impact of the 2023 utility increases on the average residential home in town will now total just over $150 for the year.
“We understand it’s a difficult year for everybody, and it has been a tough year for our utilities budgets,” said Mayor Doug Holmes.
“The concerns of residents have been heard and we hope that by matching the Province’s one-time credit, we can provide residents some much needed assistance while at the same time provide safe and reliable water, sewer and electrical services, and still maintain momentum to address our infrastructure deficit.”
The District cited skyrocketing costs, material shortages and increasing interest rates as factors that have significantly impacted utility budgets.
It said it has experienced a 142% increase in the last year for water treatment chemicals alone, which means nearly $500,000 in new expenses to maintain the existing level of service for residents.
Wholesale power costs, which is the largest single expenditure in the District’s budget, are expected to rise nearly 6%.
