ATCO Electric applies for rate increase, points to Yukon's economic slowdown

ATCO Electric Yukon has applied to the Yukon Utilities Board to raise consumer rates by7.5 per cent over two years.

The company purchases electricity from Yukon Energy, which it distributes to 12 communities in the territory, including Whitehorse, as well as a variety of rural areas. It also generates some power with itshydro-electric and diesel plants.

"After experiencing strong growth from 2004-2012, the pace of economic activity in the Yukon has slowed down significantly," reads ATCO's application to the utilities board.

"Slower population growth has also contributed to minimal customer gains in both residential and commercial sectors."

It says the rate increase is needed for new projects and to replace old equipment, due to "significant cost pressures."

"The overall impact of the economic and population growth slowdown is expected to impact ATCO Electric Yukon's customer growth and sales."

A three-day YukonUtilities Board public hearing on the rate application is scheduled for November.

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