N.B. Power is currently facing a challenge with approximately 17,000 households in New Brunswick that have refused the installation of smart meters. This refusal rate stands at 4.6 percent, meaning that about one in every 22 households has opted out of the new technology. Historically, N.B. Power president Lori Clark noted that fewer than one percent of customers declined a smart meter after the initial 40,000 installations.
In response to this situation, N.B. Power is planning a campaign aimed at convincing these households to reconsider their decision. The utility is also awaiting approval from the New Brunswick Energy and Utilities Board for a proposed monthly meter reading fee of $4.65 for customers who refuse smart meters. This fee would apply to those who choose to have their meters read manually six times a year.
Smart meters are designed to allow for real-time electronic collection of individual customer consumption data, which can enhance billing accuracy and provide insights into energy usage. However, some customers have expressed concerns regarding the accuracy of these meters and privacy issues related to the continuous monitoring of their electrical consumption.
Phil Landry, a spokesperson for N.B. Power, stated, “We are waiting on the outcome of this proceeding before doing so,” referring to the approval process for the proposed fee. He added, “But there is no guarantee of that,” indicating uncertainty about the timeline for implementation.
Despite the challenges, N.B. Power remains optimistic that opposition to smart meters may have softened in recent months. Observers note that as the utility continues to roll out up to 388,000 new smart meters across the province, it will be crucial for them to address the concerns of those who have opted out.
In addition to the smart meter initiative, N.B. Power is also facing legal challenges, having been charged with five counts related to a worker’s death due to safety violations. The sentencing for this case is scheduled for April 20, 2025.
As N.B. Power moves forward with its plans, the utility will need to navigate both the technical and social aspects of the smart meter rollout to ensure a successful transition for all customers.
