KJIPUKTUK (HALIFAX) - The Ecology Action Centre is concerned that a new fee proposed by Nova Scotia Power (NSP) will threaten the province’s ability to transition to renewable energy and effectively tackle the climate emergency. Yesterday, NSP made a proposal to the Utilities and Review Board (UARB) to amend regulations for solar energy in Mi’kma’ki/Nova Scotia. The amendment would see a monthly fee charged to homeowners with net-metered solar installations, called a System Access Charge.
“Imagine you’re a homeowner who wants to do your part to help the environment and your community by setting up solar energy on your home. Then, on top of paying for installation, to connect to the grid and for a net meter, you now have to pay an additional monthly System Access Charge,” says Gurprasad Gurumurthy, energy coordinator, renewables and electricity with the EAC. “We’re in a climate emergency and this fee will disincentivize residents who want to set up solar energy at a time when we need to be transitioning to renewables as fast as we can.”
The proposed System Access Charge would cost a net-metered customer an average of $960 per year for the electricity they themselves are generating. It also follows NSP’s request to the UARB to increase general rates by an average of 3.7 per cent in 2022, 2023 and 2024 to “focus on rapid decarbonization” and the slashing of Solar Home Rebates by half.
“An additional charge to homeowners who are contributing to the green economy and helping tackle climate change reduces access to affordable, sustainable energy,” says Gurumurthy. “We’re urging the Utilities and Review Board to deny Nova Scotia Power’s request. In the midst of a climate emergency, we can’t afford to impose barriers on Nova Scotians who want to be part of the solution.”
-30-