Albertans pushing government for regulation of energy

NDP Opposition leader Brian Mason launched a petition campaign to push for regulation of Alberta’s deregulated energy market.

“We’re paying the highest price for power ever this month, and consumers are riding a power rate roller coaster month to month. The numerous calls, faxes and e-mails we’ve received on the issue tell me Albertans want off this ride,” the Opposition leader said. “People are showing us their power bills from a decade ago to show just how much more they’re paying these days. It’s outrageous that some people are paying double what they did 10 years ago."

There are options. “We’re letting Albertans know there is an alternative to wild price fluctuations and corporate profiteering: a regulated electricity market,” Mason said. “Power is an essential service, and Albertans deserve the assurance of reliable, low prices only regulation can offer. Let’s work together to reregulate our electricity system.”

The core action of the campaign – a petition opposing deregulation and supporting regulation – can be signed online at www.ndpopposition.ab.ca/powerprices. The web site also has printable petition pages for distribution, a hot line for Albertans to share their stories of power price pain, and background information on the issue. The campaign will also be promoted through Facebook and Twitter.

Concerned citizens

A group called Concerned Neighbours In Partnership (CNIP) are also discouraged with the lack of action from the Alberta government. The CNIP petition is completely party-neutral and non-partisan. They simply want Bills 36, 10 and  24 repealed.

CNIP started an anti-bill petition because the Landowners Against Bills petition has still not been presented. Keith Wilson and Colleen Boddez plan to present the Landowners Against Bills petition, in mid February.

The CNIP petition is posted on the Camrose County council web site under "Doing Business" in the drop-down menu.

CNIP is asking that people sign the petition by Jan. 28, so action can take place prior to the upcoming election. Contact Deb Kirk at 780-374-2278 or Marion Leithead at 780-373-2467.