Manitoba Hydro looking to increase electricity rate starting next year

Manitoba Hydro power lines are photographed just outside Winnipeg on May 1, 2018. THE CANADIAN PRESS/John Woods

Your electricity bill could get a little more expensive starting next year.

Manitoba Hydro has released its three-year general rate application to the Public Utilities Board of Manitoba and is seeking a 3.5 per cent increase in its electricity rate for 2026, 2027 and 2028.

Hydro says the rate increases would see people pay an average of $3.69, $3.81 and $3.94 more for using 1,000 kilowatt hours per month, and $7.05, $7.28 and $7.53 for people using 2,000 kilowatt hours per month.

“We realize this is a challenging time for Manitobans already paying higher prices for many goods and services,” Allan Danroth, president and CEO of Manitoba Hydro, in a statement. “Manitoba Hydro is also facing increased costs, and the rates we’re requesting will ensure we can continue to provide safe, reliable energy now and into the future.”

Manitoba Hydro said they are also facing challenges outside of their control, including drought and low water levels, which limits how much energy they can sell on the export market. They have reported a net financial loss for two of the last three years due to drought.

The crown corporation says it is also facing significant costs to maintain and upgrade aging infrastructure, noting some of its stations have been in service for 55 years, when they were built for 35 years.

Hydro says even with the rate increases, Manitoba’s electricity rates are expected to remain among the lowest in North America.

The Public Utilities Board will make the final decision on a rate increase.