NB Power Halts Winter Disconnections for Vulnerable Saint John Residents

Saint John, NB – As the colder months approach, NB Power has announced a crucial interim moratorium on electricity disconnections for vulnerable populations due to non-payment of bills. This measure, effective from December 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026, aims to alleviate financial stress for many residents across New Brunswick, including those in Saint John.

The decision comes as a direct response to a recommendation from the Vulnerable Populations Committee, established in May 2025 to address the challenges faced by customers struggling with bill payments, energy poverty, or disabilities.

Who Qualifies for the Moratorium?

This interim policy is specifically designed to protect those most at risk. Customers who meet any of the following criteria will be eligible for the moratorium:

• Individuals aged 70 and above.
• Customers with confirmed medical conditions that necessitate electricity-powered equipment.
• Households with an annual gross income of less than $70,000.

NB Power’s customer care team will proactively engage with eligible customers to explore solutions such as payment assistance programs or equalized payment plans. It is important to note that qualifying customers are still required to make some payment each month to maintain their accounts in good standing and prevent large outstanding balances by spring.

Commitment to Affordability and Support

Lori Clark, President and CEO of NB Power, emphasized the utility’s commitment to supporting its customers. “Electricity disconnection has always been a last resort, but we do understand that the possibility of that during the winter season can add additional stress to customers,” Clark stated. “At NB Power, we are committed to finding new and impactful ways of offering support and easing the financial stress some of our customers are facing related to managing their bills.”

Randy Hatfield, Executive Director of the Human Development Council, highlighted the committee’s role: “Our committee advocated for this moratorium to protect vulnerable New Brunswickers from being left without service during periods of extreme cold.”

A Pilot for Long-Term Solutions

The moratorium will operate as a pilot program, allowing NB Power to gather and analyze data on arrears, payment plans, and customer outcomes. This data will be crucial in developing a comprehensive, long-term policy framework for affordability and service continuity. For more details on this initiative, you can visit the official announcement on the NB Power website.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the NB Power winter disconnection moratorium?

It is an interim policy preventing electricity disconnections for vulnerable customers due to non-payment of bills during the winter heating season, from December 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026.

Who is considered a vulnerable population for this moratorium?

Customers aged 70 and above, those with medical issues requiring electricity-powered equipment, or households with annual gross incomes under $70,000.

Do I still need to pay my bill if I qualify for the moratorium?

Yes, qualifying customers must continue to make some payment each month to keep their accounts in good standing and avoid accumulating large debts.

What is the Vulnerable Populations Committee?

Launched in May 2025, this committee advises NB Power on improving services and support for customers facing difficulties with bill payments, energy poverty, or disabilities.

Is this a permanent policy?

No, it is an interim pilot program. NB Power will use the data collected to inform the development of a long-term affordability and service-continuity policy.