Home / Business and Economy / Consumers Slam Revised Halifax Water Rate Plan
Consumers Slam Revised Halifax Water Rate Plan
4 Jan
Summary
- Halifax Water's revised rate increase proposal is still deemed too high.
- Consumer advocate questions future rate strategies for affordability.
- Landlords suggest a 10% increase and negotiation for future rates.
Halifax Water's latest proposal for rate increases, which seeks a compounded 18 percent hike between January and April 2026, is still being met with strong objections. The utility had initially requested over 35 percent, but the Nova Scotia Regulatory and Appeals Board ordered a reduction due to concerns of 'rate shock.' Interveners, including the consumer advocate David Roberts, argue that the revised figure still amounts to significant increases that may not be reasonable or affordable for customers.
Roberts highlighted that new rate strategies are necessary to prevent future steep hikes. He noted the board's efforts to seek financial relief from Halifax Regional Municipality and explore municipal absorption of some utility shortfalls. Halifax Water maintains that recent low rates, combined with inflationary pressures and essential infrastructure upgrades, necessitate the proposed increases to maintain service levels.
Other stakeholders, like Rental Housing Providers Nova Scotia and Killam Apartment REIT, also voiced concerns. Rental Housing Providers is urging for a cumulative increase capped at 10 percent for 2026 and negotiations for 2027-2031 rates. Killam Apartment REIT stated the revised rates would strain household budgets. A decision from the regulatory board is anticipated in the early days of January 2026.
