Nova Scotia Power rate hike faces public hearing

Nova Scotia Power has proposed residential rate increases totaling about 8.1% over two steps, and the Nova Scotia Energy Board is holding a public hearing this week to decide whether to approve them.

Nova Scotia Power has applied to raise residential electricity rates in two steps that would compound to about 8.1%. The utility says the increases are needed to meet rising demand, improve reliability during extreme weather and support climate-related work. Opponents, including consumer groups and political leaders, say the increases would add to household financial strain and follow a recent major cybersecurity breach. A public hearing before the Nova Scotia Energy Board begins Wednesday and will hear evidence from the utility, expert witnesses and interveners. What is known: - Nova Scotia Power proposes a 3.8% increase immediately and an additional 4.1% on Jan. 1, 2027, together compounding to about 8.1% for residential customers. - Morrison Park Advisors told the board the changes would generate about $180 million in additional revenue over two years, and consultants warned a further credit downgrade could add roughly $25 million or more per year in near-term costs. - The hearing starts Wednesday and may run several days; the board will hear the utility, interveners including consumer representatives, and provincial government witnesses before ruling. Summary: The hearing will weigh whether the proposed increases are "just and reasonable" or an "unmanageable burden" for households, with consumer groups and political leaders presenting opposing views. The board's decision will determine whether the rate changes proceed; the timing of a final ruling was not specified.