April 30, 2015 – The final results of the Nova Scotia Electricity System Review are now in and available to the public. After a year of consultation and input from more than 1300 Nova Scotians, the provincial government says the review will help shape the upcoming electricity plan.

“Nova Scotians care about their energy future, and we heard that loud and clear throughout this process,” said Energy Minister Michel Samson. “The results of this review inform the electricity plan now underway. It lays the groundwork for what we all want, a long-term, sustainable and cost-effective path forward, one that benefits ratepayers today while protecting our environment for future generations.”

As part of the review, experts, interested groups and the public considered emerging technologies, trends in market supply and demand, and how the system is administered and structured.

The new plan—slated to be unveiled this fall—is to outline how government will support economic development and innovation through technology and other solutions such as storage and in growth areas, including tidal.

The government said it found, according to the review, Nova Scotians support:

• Long-term rate stabilization and predictable electricity rates.
• Increased consumer control and ability to manage electricity costs.
• Stronger performance standards for Nova Scotia Power Inc.
• More accountability and transparency in setting electricity rates.
• A focus on the environment and support for renewable energy resources and innovation when it makes financial sense, and with less impact to ratepayers.

The report can be downloaded below.