NB Acorn fights Energy Poverty

On Friday, May 9, at 1 p.m. Atlantic time, NB ACORN members affected by high NB Power rates from across the province will unite for a provincewide phone zap, calling MLAs and provincial leaders to demand action on energy poverty and skyrocketing power rates.

The action comes as New Brunswickers continue to struggle with rising energy bills, with NB Power rates set to increase by more than 50 per cent by the time the 2026 rate hike takes effect, compared to 2022 levels.

“People are doing everything they can to make ends meet, and these power bills are just too much,” said Nichola Taylor, NB ACORN chair.

“We know the government is reviewing NB Power, and we’re glad to see that. But we also need them to hear directly from the people most affected—families who are cutting back on groceries or skipping bills just to keep the heat and lights on.”

The phone zap will target key decision-makers, including Premier Susan Holt and Energy Minister René Legacy, to highlight ACORN’s Affordable Energy Platform, which includes:

• A moratorium on residential rate hikes
• A winter disconnection ban
• A low-income energy rebate
• Full funding for the Enhanced Energy Savings Program
• Energy retrofit supports for low- and moderate-income rental housing
• An arrears management program based on ability to pay

According to the Saint John Human Development Council, New Brunswick has the highest energy poverty rate in the country—double the national average. Eighty-one per cent of low-income households face unaffordable bills, 13 per cent of accounts are in arrears, and disconnections are rising.

“NB Power keeps raising rates while major industrial users—like the Irvings—lobby for lower prices. Meanwhile, everyday people are falling behind,” said Taylor.

“We’re calling on the Holt government to prioritize people, not profits.”