The provincial government is still working on its master plan for rate mitigation in the post-Muskrat Falls era.

Government does not wish to see rates climb over 13.5 cents kWh, but it will have to provide heavy subsidies for that to materialize. It has already begun some measures, including a pitch to the federal government for assistance and conversion of public oil-fired buildings to electric heat.

Premier Dwight Ball provided an update this afternoon, saying talks will continue through the weekend.

Without any intervention, some experts believe that rates could easily double over the next several years.

Meanwhile, recommendations on rate mitigation from the Public Utilities Board are expected to be released today.