Amendments to Public Utilities Act

SERVICE N.S./MUNICIPAL RELATIONS--Amendments to Public Utilities Act

• ---------------------------------------------------------------Amendments to the Public Utilities Act introduced today, May 6, will make it easier for public utilities in Nova Scotia to proceed with capital projects.

The maximum amount a public utility can spend before applying to the Utility and Review Board for approval will be increased from $25,000 to $250,000.

"This amount better reflects the reality of the costs of capital projects for water and electrical utilities in Nova Scotia," said Ramona Jennex, Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations. "This helps to better streamline the investment process, which will help create jobs and grow the economy."

Changes will also allow all public utilities, not just Nova Scotia Power, to submit annual expense plans to the UARB for prior approval.

The Union of Nova Scotia Municipalities was consulted about the amendments.