Previously, Nova Scotia Power and other industrial users in the Port Hawkesbury area enjoyed stable water rates. However, recent developments indicate a significant shift as the Landrie Lake Water Utility has applied for a rate hike, driven by rising costs and the demand for water from EverWind Fuels’ proposed green hydrogen project.
The decisive moment occurred when the utility announced plans to supply up to 10 million litres of water daily to EverWind Fuels. This substantial request has prompted the utility to seek approval from the Nova Scotia Regulatory and Appeals Board for increased rates, which could lead to existing industrial users facing a rate hike of between 16 and 23 percent starting in July.
As a result of these changes, Nova Scotia Power, along with other users such as Port Hawkesbury Paper and Tupper Industrial Developers, will see their water costs rise. The utility proposes that EverWind pay a flat rate of approximately $12,500 quarterly for its water usage, a move aimed at ensuring that existing customers are not subsidizing this large user.
According to Iaian Langley, a representative from the utility, “One of the key objectives of this rate study is to ensure that all the existing customers that we have today, that they’re not subsidizing any single large user.” This statement underscores the utility’s commitment to maintaining fairness among its customers.
Moreover, the utility has received environmental approval to construct a new pipeline, which is expected to enhance water security for existing customers while supporting the burgeoning green hydrogen sector. Langley noted, “In a drought summer like last summer, we had plenty of water and there’s plenty available for other industrial customers,” indicating that the utility is prepared to meet increased demands.
The proposed changes reflect a broader trend in the region towards sustainable energy projects, which are becoming increasingly reliant on adequate water supply. As Nova Scotia Power navigates these new challenges, the implications of the rate hike will be closely monitored by both the utility and its customers.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the final approval of the rate hike and its potential impact on the broader community. Stakeholders are awaiting further information on how these changes will unfold in the coming months.
