Carolyn Dahl Rees, currently the interim chair of the AUC, has been designated as chair for a two-year period, until Jan. 3, 2023. Dahl Rees previously served as acting chair and vice-chair of the AUC from 2008 to 2012. Two new commission members and two acting commission members have also been appointed.

Under the guidance of Ms. Dahl Rees, the AUC has strengthened its focus on streamlining regulatory processes and reducing red tape, which are integral to its critical role in effectively regulating Alberta’s electricity and natural gas sectors. By adding a wide range of expertise to the commission’s leadership, Alberta’s government will provide more certainty to investors, the electricity market and, ultimately, consumers.

Vera Slawinski and Cairns Price have been appointed as full-time commission members for five-year terms, effective Jan. 4. Slawinski recently served as legal counsel at ENMAX. She also has past experience as commission counsel at the AUC, providing advice on regulatory matters, including compliance with acts and regulations governing Alberta’s electricity industry. Price formerly served as counsel at TransAlta and has strong regulatory experience and in-depth knowledge of the energy industry, regulatory law, and environmental law.

Vincent Kostesky has been nominated as an acting commission member for a five-year term, effective Jan. 4. He is a chartered professional accountant and has extensive industry and regulatory experience, including working as a director of TC Energy.

Doug Larder is the AUC’s general counsel, whose primary responsibility is to provide sound legal advice to the commission and representation in all areas of its operations. Mr. Larder’s term as acting commission member is being extended for five years, concluding Jan. 3, 2026.

Quick facts

  • The AUC regulates Alberta’s utilities and natural gas and electricity markets to protect the social, economic and environmental interests of ratepayers where competitive market forces cannot. The AUC is responsible for ensuring that the delivery of Alberta's utility service is fair, responsible, and in the public interest.
  • The AUC was created in 2008, following the passing of the Alberta Utilities Commission Act.
  • Alberta has four electricity agencies:
    • Alberta Utilities Commission
    • Alberta Electric System Operator
    • Market Surveillance Administrator
    • Balancing Pool