Solar for all is the future of energy in NB
December 9, 2024
Fredericton – Yesterday, NB Power took a step towards expanding the contribution of renewable energy to our electricity supply with its announcement of 670 megawatts of new wind power. Green Party Leader David Coon says that the ball is now in the new Holt government’s hands to ensure the on-site generation of solar electricity becomes the norm in New Brunswick.
On-site solar power reduces energy poverty and will help homeowners and business owners save money on their power bills,” said Coon. “And it is essential to ensure that renewable energy becomes the dominant source of our electricity supply to meet our net zero carbon target in the face of climate breakdown.”
It now makes more sense for homeowners and business owners to generate solar power than to buy electricity from NB Power. In the Speech from the Throne, Premier Holt committed to introducing a provincial program for solar retrofits. Coon adds that the program’s objective should be to unlock the reliability and cost savings of on-site solar generation and energy storage for tens of thousands of households and businesses in the province.
“New Brunswickers need a solar for all program that is accessible and equitable, so the upfront capital costs are not a barrier to the adoption of on-site solar power generation for anyone or any neigbourhood,” said Coon. “The advent of plug-in solar means the sun can also be used to cut power bills for those with low incomes living in apartments or homes at little cost, with little or no cost for installation.”
The program must be flexible and multi-faceted to meet the needs of those living in energy poverty, single and multi-family residences, community solar for new subdivisions, municipal buildings, First Nation housing, and on-site generation for small and medium-sized businesses, according to the Green Party leader.
“Solar is the cheapest and cleanest form of energy today. Plug-in solar panels truly mean there can be solar for all, so I urge Premier Holt to launch the solar revolution in New Brunswick for 2025.”
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