Re: “NDP uses escape clause after two weeks,” column, March 6.
I want to assure readers that the provincial government is committed to restoring the independence of the B.C. Utilities Commission after years of interference by the previous government.
We are not providing the BCUC direction on the regulation of electric-vehicle charging stations. We have participated in the BCUC’s inquiry into this issue, as they would expect, so that they are aware of our government’s goal to expand the use of EVs across the province.
Last month, to make sure B.C. Hydro works better for people, we announced a number of measures we are taking to roll back past government directions that have restricted the BCUC’s independent oversight over utilities that people use every day.
We are restoring the BCUC’s authority to make decisions on rate increases, deferral accounts, capital projects and other matters that affect British Columbians.
We want to work with the BCUC to ensure the growing number of people who drive EVs have more options for charging and that we make EVs more accessible to meet our climate-action targets. We welcome any recommendations that the BCUC may make as a result of the inquiry and look forward to delivering a strong CleanBC program for the province.
Michelle Mungall
Minister of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources
