Seasonal power users such as ice rinks, some farms, campgrounds, ski hills and others will see some relief on their bills this spring as SaskPower adjusts demand charges.

Demand charges are issued to customers who use large amounts of power, often over a short period of time. The charge is necessary because SaskPower must hold adequate power capacity in reserve in case the customer needs it.

“SaskPower recognizes the financial challenges that demand charges can place on some of our seasonal customers,” said Don Morgan, Minister Responsible for SaskPower. “That’s why we’re adjusting our billing practices to better reflect how they use power.”

Beginning May 1, 2023, the time-period used to calculate minimum demand charges will be reduced from 11 to six months for eligible seasonal farm and commercial customers. It will reset every May and November. Resetting the minimum demand period in May and November means that a customer’s peak months of power use are not part of the calculations for the minimum monthly billing charges applied during their off seasons. For example, an ice rink won’t have to pay for the effects of their winter demand charges in the summer.

This change means that those who use power on a seasonal basis will now have lower power bills during their off seasons. This will benefit approximately 1,400 customer accounts, saving each an average of about $1,140 per year.

For more information, visit saskpower.com/rates.

At a glance...

• SaskPower is adjusting billing practices to provide rate relief for seasonal customers
  
• Demand charges will now be calculated on a six-month period, saving applicable customers an average of $1,140 per year
  
• For more information visit saskpower.com/rates