N.B. Power’s Proposal Sparks Concerns Among Solar Industry in New Brunswick
Dave Brushett, the head of Solar Nova Scotia, expressed alarm over N.B. Power’s recent plan to implement a new fee for customers generating rooftop solar energy in New Brunswick. This move reminded him of a similar situation in Nova Scotia earlier in 2022 when Nova Scotia Power proposed an access charge for their solar clients, leading to a standstill in the industry.
Brushett highlighted the negative economic impact of these proposals, which could extend the payback period for solar investments significantly. He warned that by imposing additional charges, such as $80 monthly in Nova Scotia and over $100 in New Brunswick, the growth of the solar sector could be severely hindered.
Despite the strong opposition in Nova Scotia, where Premier Tim Houston intervened to stop the fee imposition, New Brunswick’s government has chosen not to interfere with N.B. Power’s ongoing process. The proposed changes include a new demand charge and adjustments to rates for solar producers, potentially affecting both current and future customers.
René Legacy, the Energy Minister of New Brunswick, emphasized the importance of allowing the Energy and Utilities board to make a ruling on the proposal before any governmental intervention. He encouraged public participation in the decision-making process.
Brushett criticized N.B. Power’s argument of “cost shifting,” stating that solar customers should not be unfairly penalized for reducing their reliance on the grid. He emphasized the disparity in the solar industry’s size between New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island, urging New Brunswickers to consider the potential negative impact on solar adoption in the province.
Félix Ouellet, a Moncton resident, raised questions about New Brunswick’s divergence from its neighboring provinces in addressing solar energy issues. Ouellet, who analyzed the impact of N.B. Power’s proposed changes based on his own solar system data, highlighted the significant financial burden these changes could pose on residents looking to invest in solar energy.
The concerns raised by industry experts and residents underscore the importance of carefully evaluating the implications of N.B. Power’s proposal on the solar industry and energy sustainability in New Brunswick.