Update - NB Power's proposed changes to net metering and solar Incentives

As you've probably heard, NB Power is proposing changes to net metering that include:

• A new demand charge for residential solar customers — a fee based on peak power draw that is difficult to predict or control, especially with electric heat or EV chargers.

• A reduced credit for electricity you send back to the grid — replacing the current retail-rate credit with a lower 'value-of-solar' rate.

A billing example prepared by NB Power and included in their submission shows a typical solar customer paying about $90 more per month under the proposed structure. We are working to verify that calculation and understand exactly who would be affected and how.

As well, NB Power is proposing to eliminate the $200/installed KW rebate currently offered under the Total Home Energy Savings Program May 27, less than two weeks from now.

Solar NB Solaire is responding with a two-pronged approach: 

• We've applied to be Intervenors in the Energy and Utilities Board proceeding in partnership with CanREA, the Canadian Renewable Energy Association.

• We're launching a parallel government relations and public communications campaign to ensure politicians and all New Brunswickers understand what is at stake.

Look for us in your news feed this coming week - and please share and amplify on your networks!  This is the biggest challenge our growing solar industry has faced, and we are responding forcefully!