Debt-saddled power utility: New Brunswick to create consumer advocate for energy

A contractor with NB Power does a repair on a power line in Fredericton, on Tuesday, Dec. 19, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Stephen MacGillivray

FREDERICTON — The New Brunswick government says it will create a consumer advocate role to represent residents and small businesses at its energy regulator.

It’s one of 50 recommendations from an independent review mandated by the Liberal government regarding its debt-saddled Crown corporation NB Power.

The review by three experts says a consumer advocate is needed to make sure ratepayers are better represented when the Energy and Utilities Board sets electricity prices.

Premier Susan Holt is announcing her government’s response to the review in Fredericton.

Her government has also agreed with a recommendation to discuss with other Maritime provinces the possibility of a joint energy operator.

The Liberals say none of the recommendations was rejected but some need further review such as the call to restructure NB Power as a public-private corporation.

Eli Ridder, The Canadian Press

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 25, 2026.