Alberta’s regulated electricity rate has been flagged for possible elimination. A newly released list of priority tasks for the recently sworn-in Minister of Affordability and Utilities, Nathan Neudorf, instructs him to explore that option and to promote offset technologies that would allow for continued fossil-fuel-fired power generation.
In outlining Neudorf’s mandate, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith reiterates the envisioned schedule to achieve a carbon-neutral electricity grid by 2050, which was set out in a provincial plan for emissions reductions and energy development released earlier this year. “Pushing back against any federal regulation requiring a net-zero power grid by 2035” is cited first among the nine major responsibilities she identifies.
Other key chores in the Minister’s job jar include ensuring the Alberta Utilities Commission and Alberta Electricity System Operator are likewise aligned with the government’s power production philosophy, and looking for ways to cut transmission and distribution costs. The hinted phase-out of regulated utility rates is presented in the context of a cost review, which is also to examine how to protect consumers against price spikes and support “a competitive range of provider choices” in the market.
Neudorf is also directed to work with his Cabinet peers to address the costs of housing, food and insurance. That includes collaborating with the Minister of Treasury Board and Finance to produce recommendations related to cost and attainability of automobile and property insurance, and with the Minister of Seniors, Communities and Social Services to develop and implement an affordable home ownership and rental strategy, focusing on “incentivizing the construction of new homes and rental units”.
Finally, the list ends as it begins, with an emphasis on combatting the federal government. Neudorf is instructed to collaborate with the Minister of Energy and Minerals and the Minister Environment and Protected Areas “to develop strategic alliances with other provinces to deal with issues such as climate policy, electricity policy and federal intrusions into provincial jurisdiction”.
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