News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – The following statement was issued by Energy and Resource Development Minister Rick Doucet concerning Friday’s decision by the Energy and Utilities Board (EUB):

We are certainly disappointed that NB Power put forward an implementation plan for smart meters that the EUB found was not in the best interests of ratepayers.

When NB Power wants to invest money, it needs to demonstrate very clearly that its spending will benefit ratepayers.

It is the EUB’s role to oversee that process and we appreciate their work.

Our priority as a government is that NB Power operate efficiently and reliably and that electricity rates are kept low.

The utility is expected to have a high level of business management expertise, as it operates independently from government.

We will closely review this matter to ensure that NB Power is properly delivering on its mandate from New Brunswickers.