Bill 7: Energy Affordability Act

This bill primarily affects Nova Scotia Power Incorporated, which must develop and submit an arrears-management program to the Utility and Review Board. Energy efficiency service providers and third-party emergency bill support organizations operating in Nova Scotia — such as those running the Home Energy Assessment Program or Home Warming Program — will see their programs consolidated, reviewed, and potentially receive additional government funding. Contractors and trades businesses doing home energy retrofits, heat pump installations, or insulation work in Nova Scotia could see increased demand as the province targets elimination of oil heating by 2050 and sets rising energy savings standards. Efficiency Nova Scotia and utility-facing businesses will need to align with a new legislated energy efficiency resource standard, with minimum annual demand-side savings targets growing from 1.5% to 3% by 2030.