The Affordable Utility Rates Act
Manitoba's Bill 37 (The Affordable Utility Rates Act) is the Kinew NDP government's 2024 statutory cap on Manitoba Hydro residential-rate increases at the rate of inflation. The Public Utilities Board (PUB), Manitoba's independent utility-rate regulator, must approve Manitoba Hydro rate applications; Bill 37 binds the PUB's discretion by capping the residential rate at inflation. Manitoba has the third-lowest electricity rates in North America (after Quebec and BC) due to its hydroelectric-dominant generation mix. The freeze responded to Manitoba Hydro's proposed 6.7-percent rate increase in 2023, which the PUB had approved.
Status
Quick learn
Lowers and stabilizes Manitoba Hydro and Centra Gas rates for residential and small-business customers, with multi-year increase caps. The Kinew NDP government's first substantive affordability legislation.
Issues this bill touches
- Cost of Living
Affordable Utility Rates Act. Lowers and stabilizes Manitoba Hydro and Centra Gas rates for residential and small-business customers.
Legislative history
- Introduced
Tabled in the originating chamber by the sponsor.
View source - Second reading
Debated in principle; vote sends the bill to committee.
View source
Sponsored by
Wab KinewMB NDPOfficial source
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