Advertisement

Coon seeks to boost renewable energy mix for municipalities and First Nations

New Brunswick Green Party Leader David Coon is seen on Wednesday, March 13, 2019.
New Brunswick Green Party Leader David Coon is seen on Wednesday, March 13, 2019. Morganne Campbell/Global News

The leader of New Brunswick’s Green party says municipalities and First Nations should be able to buy renewable power from locally owned companies.

David Coon says NB Power’s monopoly over the electricity market is holding back development of a renewable energy industry.

His comments come following a tour of the province to discuss renewable energy.

Breaking news from Canada and around the world sent to your email, as it happens.

READ MORE: Atlantic Canada clean energy collaboration receives $2M federal investment

When the legislature resumes later this month, Coon says he plans to table a bill to amend the Electricity Act.

Three municipalities that operate their own utilities – Saint John, Perth-Andover and Edmundston – are permitted to buy local renewable power from private producers within their city limits.

READ MORE: Immigration and clean power top agenda for federal and Atlantic officials

Coon says every other municipality is at a disadvantage, unable to buy wind, solar or hydroelectric power from anyone other than Crown-owned NB Power.

Advertisement

Sponsored content

AdChoices