Edmonton Water Bylaw 

EPCOR operates the water system according to Performance Based Regulations (PBR) found in the City of Edmonton Waterworks Bylaw. This Bylaw was renewed on July 4, 2006. In addition to updating the performance measures for the next five years, the Bylaw also sets out rules for water rate adjustments from 2007-2011.

Important Points to Remember . . .

• Performance based regulation means that water rates changes would be limited to less than inflation. In addition, EPCOR must meet performance standards set by the City.
• In addition to annual water rate increases, EPCOR introduced special rate adjustments in 2007 and 2008 to incorporate major capital upgrades to the E.L. Smith Water Treatment Plant. The upgrade was designed to increase Edmonton's total water supply by at least 25%, and secure a reliable supply of high quality water for the next 15 years.

Q & A

1. How much will the average residential bill increase in 2010?
   The average household water bill will increase about $0.69 per month. The average residential household (2.4 people) will now pay $35.88 per month for tap water and fixed service charges.
2. How much will the average commercial bill increase in 2009?
   

   			2008	2009	2010
   Customer Class	Meter Size	m3 per month	Total Water Bill	Total Water Bill	Total Water Bill
   Multi-Residential	1 " (25mm)	385	$485	$493	$501
   Commercial
   Extra Small	5/8" (15mm)	125	$141	$143	$146
   Small	5/8" (15mm)	325	$344	$350	$355
   Medium	1.5" (40mm)	6,000	$4,897	$4,982	$5,060
   Large	6" (150mm)	20,000	$14,084	$14,326	$14,558

   
   Note: this estimate is based on a 2.0% annual rate of inflation and doesn't include sewage fees.
   
3. What are the benefits of the proposed PBR Renewal (2007-2011)?
   • Customers receive stable and predictable rates over the five year period.
   • Customers are assured that their utility must meet performance standards, and that if the utility fails to meet the standards set by the City, customers will receive a refund.
4. What performance standard is EPCOR required to meet?
   The City of Edmonton requires EPCOR to meet defined performance measures in the areas of customer service, environment, water quality, system reliability, and employee safety. EPCOR's performance is tracked in a yearly water report card which is audited.