Many West Kootenay residents will be paying 3.5 per cent more for their power as of next month.
FortisBC says it has received approval for its rate increase, subject to further review by the BC Utilities Commission.
“We strive to deliver electricity safely and reliably at the lowest reasonable cost,” executive vice-president Roger Dall’Antonia said in a news release.
“Keeping electricity rates among the lowest in North America is important to us and we do this by balancing the need for prudent investment in the system, purchasing the necessary power, and managing our general operating expenses.”
The interim rate increase works out to about $4.12 per month for the average residential electricity customer.
FortisBC serves much of West Kootenay, including Castlegar, Kaslo, the Slocan Valley, and rural areas around Nelson.
Rates went up 3.3 per cent in 2014.