Christine Fréchette announced on October 5, 2026 that she will keep a ceiling of three percent on residential electricity rate increases if she wins office. The pledge targets the pricing policy of Hydro‑Québec, the province’s public utility that supplies power to the majority of Quebec households.
The three‑percent limit was first introduced by Premier François Legault as a measure to control the cost of electricity for consumers. Since its adoption, the cap has become a focal point in discussions about the upcoming provincial election, with parties weighing the impact of utility rates on voters.
Fréchette’s statement ties the cap directly to the financial pressure on families, emphasizing that limiting rate hikes will reduce the overall cost burden on households across the province. She positioned the policy as a way to protect consumers from larger increases that could arise from rising operational costs or infrastructure investments.
Hydro‑Québec has not commented on the pledge, but the utility’s rate‑setting framework historically follows guidelines set by the provincial government. The existing cap applies to residential customers and is reviewed periodically as part of the utility’s tariff schedule.
The promise comes as political campaigns intensify, with several candidates referencing the rate‑cap as a benchmark for their energy policies. Voters are expected to consider how each platform will affect everyday expenses, particularly in a region where electricity consumption is a significant part of household budgets.
If elected, Fréchette said she would work with the government and Hydro‑Québec to ensure the three‑percent ceiling remains in place throughout her term. The commitment adds to a broader set of proposals aimed at managing the cost of essential services for Quebec residents.
The election, slated for later in the year, will likely see the rate‑cap issue featured prominently in debates and media coverage as parties outline their strategies for keeping utility costs affordable.