Energy Minister Says Predictability Key to Energy Costs

Energy Minister Cecil Clarke says predictability is key to energy costs for consumers. He is responding to Nova Scotia Power's suggestion that consumer electricity bills be tied to changing fuel costs through a "fuel adjustment mechanism."

"Nova Scotians want predictability and they want protection when it comes to the amount they are paying for electricity," said Mr. Clarke. "The current regulatory process for setting electricity rates for this province is fair and we will be putting that case forward as part of our presentation in hearings this fall."

The province will intervene in Nova Scotia Power's application for a rate increase during public hearings before the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board (UARB) beginning on Nov. 15.

Electricity rates fall under the authority of the UARB, an independent quasi-judicial body that has both regulatory and adjudicative jurisdiction.

The province will make its case on the proposed fuel surcharge along with other key issues contained in the rate application such as taxation, rate of return and fuel costs.

"My priority is to ensure that the ratepayers of the province are fully informed about all of the elements that contribute to their electricity bill," said Mr. Clarke.