File Photo: CHATNewsToday

By Meghan Cobb

ENERGY REBATES COMING

Electricity credits to be handed out on summer bills

Jun 7, 2022 | 4:47 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – The much anticipated energy rebates are on their way to Medicine Hat electricity bills.

The Alberta government announced the Electricity Rebate Program in April to provide Albertans with some relief from the winter’s skyrocketing energy rates.

Denise Schmaltz, Manager of Customer Care and Billing with the City of Medicine Hat, says she learned on Friday the program was ready to move forward.

“The government of Alberta notified all electric distributors in Alberta that the rebate program was passed and approved, and the rebates could be implemented,” says Schmatlz. “The City of Medicine Hat will be implementing the program starting in July.”

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The rebate program is $150 in total rebates made up of three $50 credits in consecutive months.

Residents will notice a line on their statement that reads “GOA (Government of Alberta) Utility Commodity Rebate.”

“Customers do not need to do anything, it will automatically be applied if they’re eligible,” says Schmaltz.

Electricity customers registered by the first of the billing cycle in July, August and September are eligible for the credit. There is a megawatt threshold for non-residential customers, and street lighting and non-metered services are not part of the program.

The announcement of this summer’s credits comes as another scam is asking for Albertan’s information.

A text message is asking people to register for the program and reads “You will receive a $150 credit on your power bill as part of Alberta’s rebate program. Apply here.” A hyperlink is included.

Scam text message / Meghan Cobb

Schmaltz says customers do not need to register for the program and should watch out for any attempt to gather personal information.

“It’s really important that our customers recognize all the phishing scams that are out there trying to get their information,” Schmaltz warns.

The City of Medicine Hat is aware of a phone scam asking people for credit card information to pay tax and utility bills.

“Customers, please do not give out any of your credit card information, do not give out your bank account information, unless you’re directly calling any of the businesses that you’re dealing with.”