Enmax cutting approximately 170 jobs amid 'prolonged economic challenges'

Citing "prolonged economic challenges" across Alberta's business sector, Enmax confirmed Thursday it was cutting approximately 170 positions, some of whichwere eliminated late last year.

"We are very proud of our talented team at Enmax, and these decisions have been difficult," said Diana Stephenson, vice-president of public affairs with the city-owned power company.

The move involves both voluntary and involuntary cuts to positions. Stephenson said approximately half involve management and non-unionized positions, while the other half involve CUPE employees.

The company said it did not anticipate further cuts at this time, and said the cuts will not impact customer service.

Stephenson said the "prolonged economic challenges" felt across Alberta necessitated the changes.

"[This] required Enmax to adapt parts of our Alberta business in 2020 to ensure we were structured to keep supporting our customers effectively, and create value for Calgarians," Stephenson said in an email.

"This involved consolidating teams and reducing our costs, which unfortunately involved voluntary and involuntary people departures."

Some of the management cuts took effect in late November 2020, Stephenson said, while others took place this week.

She said cuts to the CUPEpositions are expected in the days and weeks ahead and the exact dates "will be governed by the terms of our collective agreement."

Enmax employs approximately 1,500 people, the company said.