FortisBC Amalgamation Denied

On Feb 25, 2013, the BCUC denied FortisBC’s application to amalgamate with Terasen Gas and implement common postage stamp rates throughout the amalgamated entity’s combined service area. The postage stamp rates would have resulted in substantial rate decreases for customers of FortisBC Energy (Vancouver Island) and FortisBC Energy (Whistler) at the expense of FortisBC Energy Inc. customers in the Mainland and Fort Nelson areas. The Commission noted that regional differences supported the use of different rate designs which are better suited to the circumstances of the individual utilities.