There is growing opposition to the proposed rate increase that Fortis has put forward for approval and this time it is not only the public, but businesses as well.
Alcoa in Quebec is threatening to close its smelters because of the high hydro rates, and they are not alone. Here in B.C. companies such as Mercer International, that owns the Celgar pulp mill in Castlegar, is looking very carefully at the proposed Fortis increase, and if they were to close this operation down because of higher electrical rates, this would wreak havoc on this Kootenay community.
If Celgar is worried, just think of how the smaller businesses that are currently operating on a tight budget in Fortis controlled regions must feel.
There is a plan in the works that hopefully will put an end to Fortis’ greed, but I have been informed that this plan will not come into effect until the middle of November.
So folks, do not think that you are alone in opposing any further increases in your hydro bill; this time there are some very powerful people on your team. This letter is only the opening round in a battle with a very greedy corporation.
Read your local newspapers and be prepared to join in this fight against a very dangerous economic opponent.
Donald E. Thorsteinson
Oliver