ORDER NUMBER
G-10-18
IN THE MATTER OF
the Utilities Commission Act, RSBC 1996, Chapter 473
and
British Columbia Utilities Commission
An Inquiry into the Regulation of Electric Vehicle Charging Service
BEFORE:
D. M. Morton, Commissioner
on January 12, 2018
ORDER
WHEREAS:
A. By Order G-9-18 dated January 12, 2018, the British Columbia Utilities Commission (Commission) issued an order relating to the FortisBC Inc. (FBC) Application for Approval of Rate Design and Rates for Electric Vehicle (EV) Direct Current Fast Charging (DCFC) Service. A time-based rate of $9.00 per 30‑minute period for EV charging at FBC-owned DCFC stations was approved on an interim basis, effective January 12, 2018;
B. In Order G-9-18, the Commission notes that the rate design and rates for EV charging, including the services provided by DCFC stations, are currently in an early development stage in the province of British Columbia and other entities may emerge over time to provide EV charging service. The Commission found there are merits for a general inquiry to explore the potential regulatory issues in the EV charging stations market which may have broader stakeholder impacts; and
C. The Commission has considered the matters relating to EV charging service. Given the developments in the EV charging service in BC, and the potential impact to stakeholders, the Commission has determined that an inquiry into the regulation for EV charging service is warranted.
NOW THEREFORE pursuant to section 82 of the Utilities Commission Act, the Commission establishes an inquiry to review the regulation of EV charging service. A Commission order establishing the regulatory process and timetable will follow.
DATED at the City of Vancouver, in the Province of British Columbia, this 12th day of January 2018.
BY ORDER
Original Signed By:
D. M. Morton
Commissioner