NB Power wants to make solar unaffordable. We're pushing back

Something important is happening in New Brunswick right now, and we want you to know about it.

NB Power has filed an application with the provincial energy regulator that would fundamentally change how solar works in this province. If it goes through as proposed, solar would become financially unworkable for most New Brunswickers who want to generate their own power at home.

Why this matters — even if you don't have solar

This is not just a solar industry issue. It is about the right of New Brunswickers to have a real option when it comes to their power bills. Electricity rates are forecast to rise 60% by 2031. Solar was supposed to be one of the tools families could use to get ahead of that. NB Power's proposal would take that tool away — for families, for farmers, for anyone who hasn't already installed.

Nova Scotia made a different choice. They supported net metering, the solar sector grew, jobs were created, and New Brunswickers watched from across the border. We are asking our province to make the same smart call.

What is actually being proposed by NB Power

• A new charge on solar customers that non-solar customers don't pay.

• Reduced credits for power that solar customers send back to the grid.

• A grandfathering period of only 10 years on 25–30 year investments.

• All of this announced without consultation — the same week the province announced it was ending its solar rebate on May 27.

What Solar NB Solaire is doing

Solar NB Solaire has partnered with CanREA, the Canadian Renewable Energy Association, to form the Behind the Meter Technologies Coalition. We have formal standing at the Energy and Utilities Board to challenge NB Power's evidence and demand a fair process. We are also taking this case directly to the Premier and ministers — because this is ultimately a political and economic question, not just a regulatory one.

A media release was issued earlier this week. The story is already in the news. We will keep pushing.

Here is what we are asking government to do

Pause any changes until January 1, 2028; and require proper consultation before any future net metering changes.

How you can help

Right now, the most powerful thing supporters can do is stay informed and help us build our base. When the time comes to go public in a bigger way, we want a community that is ready to move together. That moment is coming - but for now, please:

• Follow Solar NB Solaire on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn for real-time updates.

• Share this email with anyone in New Brunswick who cares about energy affordability, clean power, or fair treatment by the utility; and invite them to join our newsletter list.

• If you own a solar system, consider becoming a full Solar NB Solaire member — your voice matters in this proceeding.

Thank you for caring about New Brunswick's energy future. We will keep you in the loop as this develops.