NB Power recently released the findings of a third-party report investigating high residential power bills. The report, conducted by KPMG, found no significant errors causing the spike in bills that many residents experienced over the summer. The assessment tested a sample of 400 meters, as well as 100 in a risk-based sample, with only 12 meters showing any signs of inaccurate readings. NB Power CEO Lori Clark stated that the 12 meters that did show inaccurate readings were under-reporting power consumption levels. The report aimed to provide customers with confidence that the metering and billing systems are working properly and that smart meters can help manage energy usage over time.
The high bills were attributed to various factors, including increased rates, longer billing periods, fewer power outages compared to the previous winter, and colder weather. According to Clark, the high dependence on electric heat in New Brunswick presents a challenge for customers. In response to the report’s findings, KPMG laid out several recommendations for NB Power, such as opening the equalized payment plan to customers with arrears up to $1,200, introducing more standardized billing days, and applying to the Energy and Utilities Board for optional time-of-use rates. However, the implementation of time-of-use rates will not be carried out until all of the province’s smart meters are installed.
NB Power has committed to testing 500 meters annually as part of their efforts to address the issue of high residential power bills. The next step in this process will be a comprehensive review by the provincial government, expected to be completed by March 2026. The company aims to continue improving its systems and addressing customer concerns regarding billing accuracy and high costs. By implementing the recommendations provided by KPMG and the provincial government’s review, NB Power hopes to enhance its services and provide customers with more options to manage their energy consumption. The ultimate goal is to ensure that customers have confidence in the accuracy of their metering and billing systems while also promoting energy conservation and efficiency.
