Paul Bernard and Hariana Brooks appeal DRO decision to NSEB after NS Power referred their account to collections despite alleged assurances of no penalties for late payment

M13033 · NSPI DRO Appeal - Billing Issues - Hariana Brooks and Paul Bernard

AI summary

Customers Paul Bernard and Hariana Brooks initiated a Appeal Processes appeal to the Nova Scotia Energy Board on August 10, 2026, contesting DRO Don Farmer's August 5, 2026 Final Written Decision (Matter M13033), which found NS Power appropriately billed the account and appropriately referred the outstanding balance of $1,673.74 to a collection agency.
The customers allege they were assured in February 2026 that no penalties would apply for late payment while estimated bills were being reconciled, and that NS Power's sole contact attempts used a phone number disconnected since October 2025, with no follow-up by mail, email, or alternate number.
NS Power confirmed it made four call attempts (June 2, 10, 16, and 23, 2026) to the number on file and released the account to collections on July 10, 2026; NS Power offered to place collection activity on hold if the customer established payment terms, but noted the credit bureau reporting would persist until the balance is paid in full.
The DRO's decision cited Board-approved Regulations 2.2, 5.1, 6.4, and 6.5, and addressed meter estimation reconciliation methodology, but the customers contend the DRO did not substantively engage with their core concern regarding inadequate contact attempts and alleged prior assurances against penalties.
NSEB administrative staff advised the customers that appeals must be submitted through the Board's online portal within 12 days of receipt of the DRO's Final Written Decision, with a copy of that decision attached.

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What was filed

Documents filed on this day

B-2 DRO Decision d. August 5, 2026 (redacted) exhibits