Topic:"Rate Design" in M12536

A. Undue Hardship Associated with Underground-Only Option The underground upgrade requires excavation across property lines, which creates financial and logistical barriers for homeowners in my neighborhood. NS Power of interpretation of "...

AI summary The text discusses the financial and logistical challenges faced by homeowners due to NS Power's interpretation of regulations requiring underground-only electrical upgrades, which are costly and inequitable. It references past UARB decisions and concerns about missing out on energy efficiency programs due to infrastructure limitations.

6. Application to the Present Case Taken together, these regulations and decisions reflect a consistent principle that NS Power is not automatically entitled to assign all infrastructure-related costs to an individual homeowner. Where syst...

AI summary The applicant argues that NS Power should not automatically assign all infrastructure-related costs to individual homeowners, especially when system design or neighborhood constraints create inequitable burdens. The applicant, a centre-unit townhouse owner, faces disproportionate expenses due to denied overhead service access and existing underground routing crossing neighboring properties, requiring a fair cost allocation and review of service options.

4. Guidance on the most practical, reasonable and financially conscious options available for upgrading to 200A service, whether overhead or underground [Applicant's Letter, November 24, 2025, p. 7] In response to Board Information Request...

AI summary NS Power responded to Board Information Requests regarding the upgrade to 200A service, explaining that the proposed conversion does not comply with internal or national standards, citing the Canadian Electrical Code. NS Power also outlined that underground service upgrades are shared expenses, with the customer responsible for upgrades from the URD box to the service entrance and NS Power covering utility-side upgrades under the free service allowance.