Written consultation established on draft amendments to Rule 009: Rules on Local Intervener Costs

On Thursday, October 3, the Alberta Utilities Commission issued Bulletin 2024-20 and established a written consultation process on draft amendments to Rule 009: Rules on Local Intervener Costs.

These draft amendments are intended to update and streamline the rule in a manner similar to previous amendments to Rule 022: Rules on Costs in Utility Rates Proceedings, to introduce honoraria for municipal interveners, and to provide for greater flexibility for hearing panels to consider costs earlier in the proceeding process.

The draft amendments also contemplate discontinuing the practice of allowing agents to recover costs for acting as a representative in AUC proceedings to increase administrative efficiency and ensure procedural fairness. In addition, the Commission is contemplating increasing rates for intervener honoraria under Rule 009. These issues are described in further detail in Bulletin 2024-20.

Any questions related to this bulletin may be directed to Patrick Schembri at patrick.schembri@auc.ab.ca.