Challenges Ahead For NSP & Customers

The CEO of Nova Scotia Power says the biggest factor pushing up power bills is the situation within the pulp and paper sector. The utility has lost two of its largest customers with the closure of Bowater Mersey and struggles at NewPage Port Hawkesbury. It's prompted the company to apply for another rake hike of six percent over the next two years to minimize the impact. Rob Bennett says they are also dealing with the cost of adding more renewable energy to the grid as mandated by the province.



If approved, the rate hikes will amount to about $3.50 a month to an average household’s power bill. Bennett addressed the Bridgewater and Area Chamber of Commerce in a speech on Thursday at the Best Western.