When Dave Brushett learned about a new proposed charge by N.B. Power affecting customers generating rooftop solar power in New Brunswick, it reminded him of a similar situation in Nova Scotia earlier this year. Brushett, chair of Solar Nova Scotia, expressed concern that the proposed fees could significantly impact the payback period for solar investments, potentially discouraging new customers in both provinces.
In Nova Scotia, a similar proposal by Nova Scotia Power faced immediate public backlash, leading Premier Tim Houston to intervene and halt the implementation of the new fee. However, in New Brunswick, N.B. Power’s proposal, which includes a demand charge and adjustments to rates for solar producers, is still under review by the Energy and Utilities board.
Energy Minister René Legacy stated that the government will not intervene in the process until the board reaches a decision in the fall, encouraging public participation in the review. The proposed changes would lower rates for solar producers but introduce a new demand charge, affecting both existing and new customers over the coming years.
Brushett emphasized that the proposed changes could hinder the growth of the solar industry in New Brunswick, contrasting the situation in Nova Scotia where the government passed legislation protecting the rights of solar customers. He criticized the concept of “cost shifting,” arguing that solar customers are being unfairly targeted compared to users of other energy-efficient technologies.
Félix Ouellet, a Moncton resident and solar system owner, raised concerns about the impact of N.B. Power’s proposed changes on residents. Through analyzing his own system data, Ouellet demonstrated that the proposed fees could significantly increase costs and payback periods for solar installations, potentially deterring future adoption of solar energy in New Brunswick.
Ouellet emphasized the importance of expanding solar energy adoption in the province for a more sustainable future. The debate surrounding N.B. Power’s proposal reflects broader discussions on the future of renewable energy and the regulatory framework supporting solar energy development in the Maritimes.