October 19, 2017 – Nova Scotia Power has received approval from the Nova Scotia Utility & Review Board for a $133-million project to install smart meters among all residents and businesses, to be rolled out in 2019.

“The time is right for our company to make this investment as we modernize our electrical grid and explore innovative technology solutions for our customers,” said Karen Hutt, president & CEO, Nova Scotia Power. “Approximately 70% of Canadian homes currently have smart meters, and we have had the opportunity to learn from the experiences of others to ensure a successful rollout.”

Customers will not be charged for their smart meter, says the utility, adding smart meters will result in $38 million in reduced costs to the electricity system over the next 20 years.

Among the various benefits cited, Nova Scotia Power says the smart meter rollout will help customers using solar power, who require a special meter that must be purchased at their expense. “Smart meters eliminate the need for this cost, encouraging wider adoption by reducing this financial barrier,” says the utility.