How can Consumers keep up? Changes in Alberta’s Electricity Sector (Part 1)

There are several significant shifts underway in Alberta’s electricity sector including: the phase-out of coal power plants, the Renewable Energy Program, development of micro and community generation, the design of the capacity market, changes to the regulated rate option (RRO) including a price cap, and banning of door-to-door energy sales. In addition, rapid technological change continues to impact all aspects of the electricity sector from generation to transmission and distribution, to how consumers use their electricity. Chris Hunt leads the Office of the Utilities Consumer Advocate (UCA) which has a mandate to educate, advocate, and mediate for Alberta’s residential, farm, and small business electricity and natural gas consumers. Chris will provide an overview of Alberta’s electricity sector and emerging trends, and factors residential, small business, and farm consumers should consider when making choices about their electricity and natural gas services. Speaker:     Chris Hunt Chris joined the Alberta Public Service following a 14 year career as an armoured corps officer in the Regular Canadian Army. He served on operations in Afghanistan and Kosovo, as well as here in Canada, and he continues to serve in the Army Reserve part-time. Since joining the Alberta Public Service 10 years ago, Chris has held several Director and Senior Management roles with the Government of Alberta, particularly in the Departments of Energy and Environment. He has worked on a wide variety of policy, legislation, and regulatory projects related to energy development and environmental management. Since his appointment as Utilities Consumer Advocate three years ago, Chris directed the creation and implementation of the UCA Consumer Education Program, including its website and social media channels, and the UCA’s Regulatory Affairs team has submitted evidence cited in Alberta Utility Commission decisions that saved consumers over $300 million. Moderator: Duane Pendergast Date: Thursday, March 22, 2018 Time: Noon - 1:30 pm Location: Country Kitchen Catering (below The Keg restaurant) 1715 Mayor Magrath Drive South Cost: $11 lunch (hearty soup & bun, desert & coffee/tea) or $2 coffee/tea. RSVP not required