Google, environmental coalition question Hydro-Québec experts on data centre rates

Lawyers for Google and an environmental coalition will question consultants for Hydro-Québec today as a public hearing concludes its first phase. The Quebec energy regulator, the Régie de l'énergie, is also examining expert testimony on proposed electricity rate increases for data centres. Hydro-Québec has applied for a new tariff for data centres needing more than five megawatts of power. The utility says the new rate would average 13 cents per kilowatt hour, roughly double what these large customers currently pay. The hearing before the Régie de l'énergie is a key part of the consultation process for the proposed tariff change. The regulator will consider the submissions from the utility, its industrial clients and environmental groups. The outcome will affect the cost of operating major data centres in Quebec.

Elsewhere, economists warn that rising diesel prices could drive up food costs this fall. University of Guelph food economist Mike von Massow said Canada is more insulated in summer when domestic produce is abundant. He explained that as winter approaches, transportation costs for refrigerated items like fresh vegetables imported from afar will increase. Market researcher Amar Singh from Kantar said consumers may opt for cheaper alternatives or skip fruits and vegetables as prices climb.

Singh added that people might also decide against hosting holiday parties due to higher costs. This economic pressure comes as Statistics Canada prepares to release September employment figures. Economists surveyed by Reuters forecast a gain of 9,200 jobs last month, following a loss of about 42,000 in August. They also expect the unemployment rate to have risen to 6.5 percent from 6.4 percent.

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In British Columbia politics, a former Conservative candidate has apologized for online posts. Joachim Agou, who was running in Victoria-Beacon Hill, said he is "truly sorry" after the party withdrew its support over comments the NDP called racist. Agou stated on social media that he takes responsibility for his words but rejects accusations of racism. One post suggested a car that drove through a pro-Palestine protest "should have reversed" over demonstrators.

Another post involved sharing a meme that used an expletive to describe Pakistan. Agou said he understands why the Conservatives ended their support and will now run as an independent. The riding is considered a stronghold for the NDP. In Quebec, former Ontario premier Kathleen Wynne drew parallels between herself and outgoing Coalition Avenir Québec leader Christine Fréchette. Fréchette announced her resignation on Tuesday after her party failed to win any seats in Monday's provincial election. Wynne, who led the Ontario Liberals from 2013, said women in politics often face a "glass cliff" where they are given power with a high likelihood of failure. She compared Fréchette's situation to that of former prime minister Kim Campbell, whose Progressive Conservatives suffered a historic defeat after her brief tenure.

With files from The Canadian Press and Narcity