Today marks the start of carbon rebate payments for Canadian households, but the program’s future is still in question.
Ottawa: The first carbon rebate of 2025 is going out today to families in provinces using the federal carbon pricing system. But there’s a cloud of uncertainty hanging over the future of this rebate program.
For a family of four, the rebate ranges from $190 in New Brunswick to $450 in Alberta. Plus, folks in small and rural areas get an extra 20% boost on their rebates.
The Liberals are facing a lot of political heat over their climate policy. They’re trying to clarify things by saying most Canadians actually get back more than they pay into the program.
Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre has promised to “axe the tax” if he gets elected. Even Mark Carney, a potential Liberal leader, mentioned in May that the carbon tax has “served its purpose, until now.” It’s still unclear if he’ll back the tax in his leadership bid.
There’s been a lot of debate about whether the carbon tax is driving up living costs for Canadians. Some experts say it’s linked to rising prices, especially with higher fuel costs affecting transport. Others argue that global issues, like soaring energy prices and supply-chain problems, are the real culprits behind the price hikes.
Today’s payment is just the first of four planned for 2025.
