In a bold stance against rising energy costs, Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston has urged Nova Scotia Power to abandon its controversial plan for a steep increase in electricity rates.

The utility company recently proposed an 8.2% hike for residential electricity rates over the next two years, pending approval from the independent Nova Scotia Energy Board. This move has sparked outrage among political leaders and residents alike.

"Time and time again, Nova Scotia Power demonstrates how disconnected they are from the everyday realities of Nova Scotians," Houston declared. "This is not the moment for a price increase; it’s time for the utility to prove they understand our struggles by withdrawing or drastically reducing their proposal."

Houston's criticism is underscored by recent events, including a significant cybersecurity breach that compromised data for over half of the utility's 525,000 customers. He questioned the appropriateness of requesting a rate hike in light of such a serious incident.

"After handling one of the largest data breaches in our province’s history, asking Nova Scotians to pay more should not be their first instinct," he stated emphatically.

Opposition Leader Claudia Chender from the NDP also chimed in, labeling the utility's rate hike request as "almost unbelievable" for families already grappling with some of the highest energy bills in the country.

Chender placed part of the blame on the Houston government, arguing they have not done enough to curb rising electricity prices. "Since 2021, households have seen their power bills soar by hundreds of dollars a year. This is a fundamental expense for Nova Scotians, not a luxury they can forgo," she asserted.

As tensions mount over energy costs, the community awaits the next steps from both Nova Scotia Power and the provincial government, hoping for a resolution that respects the financial burdens faced by residents.