Manitoba Hydro customers will see an increase in their bills in the new year.
The Public Utilities Board has approved an interim four per cent increase, which will take effect January 1, 2026.
The increase applies to most customers and is higher than the three-and-a-half percent increase that Hydro originally requested.
The Board says the higher rate increase is a result of the severe drought that has affected Manitoba over the past few years.
They say water flows into Manitoba Hydro’s watershed is currently the second lowest level in 112 years, leading to a financial loss of over $625 million.
The Board says approving the maximum increase allowed under law is necessary to protect Manitoba Hydro’s long-term financial health.
A final order on Hydro’s rates for 2026-2028 is expected to be released sometime next year. The Order is available on the Board’s website.
