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speakup

Since when did NB Power get the right to seek interim rate increases, then only go to the Energy Utilities Board (EUB) months later to obtain a "real" increase? This nonsense should be stopped. The utility has been showing healthy profits despite each year telling the EUB and public that it is facing dire straits without the increases.

The only proper and fair process is to require NB Power to apply for a rate hike then hold the public hearings and wait for the decision on how much, if any, is justified. It ought not to be onerous on the utility, which is proving profitable and enjoys a monopoly. The gouging of consumers must end.

It has not escaped notice that NB Power is mighty fast at increasing rates, even "interim increases," but it has been mighty slow returning savings when the last interim increase was too high.

If there is a public perception NB Power is seeking and finding ways around the EUB process and rulings, there can be little wonder why. The last increase was barely rolled back when it announced it would take another three per cent. Then it reported an $85 million profit. How often can it cry wolf?