NB Power Announces Additional Steps to Support Customers during Pandemic

2020-03-24

Fredericton, NB –NB Power is announcing additional measures to support its customers who are facing financial hardship as a result of COVID-19.

“We understand that many New Brunswickers are concerned about how they will pay their bills as a result of this pandemic,” said Gaëtan Thomas, President and CEO. “We have been looking for additional ways we can support our customers during this difficult time so that they can focus on their health and wellbeing.”

In addition to suspending disconnections for non-payment and collection efforts as announced last week, NB Power will support impacted customers by

• deferring electricity bill payments for residential and small business customers for up to 90 days
• extending existing payment arrangements
• waiving interest for past due balances and late payment charges issued after March 19, 2020

NB Power has also asked the Energy and Utilities Board to delay rendering a decision on NB Power’s 2020/21 General Rate Application and its request for implementation of smart meters.

“As this situation continues to evolve, we remain committed to providing safe and reliable service to customers’ homes, businesses and communities,” added Thomas. “We are committed to working with all other customers on a case-by-case basis to deal with their individual circumstances.”

In support of the New Brunswick Chief Medical Officer of Health requests for the provincial government to transition from normal operations to a focus on maintaining critical programs and services, NB Power continues to operate in mission critical work only mode until further notice. Essential services to customers include emergencies, outage restoration, move in/move out requests and essential water heater services.

MEDIA CONTACT: Sheila Lagacé, communications, NB Power, 506-458-2345 or SLagace@nbpower.com