Whistler gas users may be getting smaller bills this winter if the B.C. Utilities Commission approves an application from Centra Gas to decrease propone rates.
The rates are expected to decrease by 6.2 per cent, effective Jan. 1, 2002 and, if approved, could represent a savings of approximately $90 on annual bills, based on an average consumption of 90 gigajoules.
Centra Gas is applying for the decrease because of the lower cost of propane from suppliers.
Only six months ago, the company had negotiated a rate increase of about 11 per cent, effective as of July 1, 2001.
Currently BC Gas is in the process of buying shares in Centra and the deal is scheduled to be finalized in early January 2002. This will not effect the decreased propane rates.
Centra Gas is currently working with the municipality and the Ministry of Transportation and Highways on plans to build a natural gas pipeline to Whistler, which would replace propane.
