Tackling Power Bills: Wildrose releases Commitment to Power Consumers

Before and after, the new Wildrose logo.

FORT SASKATCHEWAN, AB (January 31, 2012): Wildrose Leader Danielle Smith released the first Wildrose Commitment to Albertans today in Fort Saskatchewan detailing a plan that will help lower power bills for Alberta families and seniors.

The Wildrose will release five Commitments in key policy areas between now and the next provincial election.

The Wildrose Commitment to Power Consumers will help lower power bills for Alberta families by:

• Repealing Bill 50 so consumers will have their say on transmission lines
• Reducing transmission costs by having new generators pay a share of future line construction
• Creating a level playing field so local generators can compete with distant generators
• Reforming how electricity is bought and sold in the market
• Protecting consumers who choose the regulated rate by having short- and long-term pricing to allow for hedging
• Encouraging energy efficiency measures

“The electricity system we currently have in place just isn’t working for Alberta families. They’re paying more for electricity and nothing has been done to protect them,” Wildrose Leader Danielle Smith said. “Alberta families need a government that is on their side and working for them to help lower the cost of living. I’m confident our Commitment to Power Consumers will do that.”

Wildrose Candidate for Fort-Saskatchewan-Vegreville Shannon Stubbs said families in her constituency are looking for help in reducing their power bills, especially in the winter months. She says residents in the constituency have also had to deal with massive transmission lines cutting through their property.

“It’s a double-whammy for the residents of this community,” Stubbs said. “The policies and practices of this government when it comes to electricity have put a big dent in people’s pocketbooks. By reducing the burden of transmission costs for consumers, the Wildrose is putting families first.”

The Wildrose Commitment campaign sets out new and innovative policy initiatives aimed at the interests and concerns of hardworking Alberta families.

For more information on the Wildrose Commitment to Power Consumers, or other Wildrose policies, visitwww.wildrose.ca/commitments

The Wildrose stands for free enterprise, less government, increased personal freedom and democracy.