(Cochrane, AB) – Cochrane Town Council has approved three utility bylaws that set water, wastewater and storm sewer rates for 2026.
For the average residential household, based on monthly water use of 12 cubic metres, the combined impact of the updated utility rates is an increase of approximately $7.06 per month, or $84.72 per year, compared to 2025.
The 2026 rate changes reflect the increasing cost of delivering essential utility services while ensuring the Town can continue to operate, maintain and invest in critical infrastructure. Updated rates help support reliable service, improved asset management, and the ongoing operation and maintenance of Cochrane’s water treatment, collection and distribution systems.
“Our utility systems are essential to public health and safety, and these rate adjustments ensure we can continue to provide reliable service while responsibly maintaining and renewing critical infrastructure,” said Shawn Tooth, Director of Utilities with the Town of Cochrane. “Council carefully considered the impact on residents and worked to keep increases as reasonable as possible while planning for the long-term sustainability of our utility services.”
Several factors are contributing to the increase in utility costs. Wastewater treatment expenses are rising as the City of Calgary, which provides wastewater treatment services for Cochrane, will increase its rates by $264,053 starting January 1, 2026. Inflationary pressures are also affecting electricity, natural gas, fuel, treatment supplies and construction materials, while additional funding is required to address aging infrastructure reaching the end of its service life.
Investments in capital reserves will support infrastructure renewal and maintenance, including water meter replacements, underground repairs identified through wastewater inspections, valve replacements, and electrical, pump and motor repairs at the transfer station.
The figures provided reflect an average residential property. Actual utility costs will vary depending on water usage, and for non-residential customers, based on the size of their service and overall consumption. Even with the approved rate increases, Cochrane continues to offer competitive utility rates when compared to other communities in the region.
The Town remains committed to balancing affordability for residents with the need to responsibly maintain and invest in essential utility infrastructure that supports community health, safety and sustainable growth. For more information, including detailed rate information, visit cochrane.ca/budget.
Town of Cochrane 2026 utility rates:
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