Small businesses in Medicine Hat are facing rising electricity bills — but is the system fair?
In this conversation, Brian sits down with local business owner Michael Reid to break down how electricity classification and demand charges are impacting small businesses across the city. Despite having small-business-level energy consumption, Michael explains how being classified as a medium commercial customer has resulted in significantly higher power costs.
The discussion explores:
How demand charges work
Why current electricity classifications may be unfair
The real-world impact on small businesses
What changes could create a more equitable system
City Councillor Stuart Young also joins the conversation, emphasizing the importance of community engagement, transparency, and understanding the complexities of municipal electricity pricing. All guests share a commitment to fostering meaningful change for Medicine Hat’s business community.
Chapters
00:00
Introduction to Small Business Challenges
00:53
Electricity Classification and Its Impact
06:54
Demand Charges and Their Consequences
12:44
Proposed Solutions for Small Businesses
17:50
City Council's Perspective on Demand Charges
20:24
Understanding Demand Charges and Their Rationale
29:55
Finding Common Ground for Solutions
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