How it could change. Amendment to electrical safety regulations under New Brunswick’s safety statutes
Create a plug-in generation class in New Brunswick’s electrical safety regulations for certified systems under 1200W. Reduced permit and electrician requirements when certified equipment is used for cord-and-outlet connection only.
Legal basis: Provincial authority over the electrical code and permit regime sits under the Public Safety portfolio. The Minister can amend regulations to create a cord-connected plug-in solar class where certified equipment is used.
Does this need new legislation? No
How it could change. Ministerial directive to NB Power under the Electricity Act
Direct NB Power to create a plug-in generation category for certified systems under 1200W, exempt from net metering application and meter upgrade. On-site use only, anti-islanding required.
Legal basis: NB Power is a Crown corporation owned by the Government of New Brunswick. The Minister responsible for Energy has authority to direct policy including interconnection categories. A simplified plug-in class for certified systems under 1200W can be established by directive, without legislative amendment.
Does this need new legislation? No
Example elsewhere. NB Power has been directed through ministerial instructions on rate structure, EV charging infrastructure, and demand-side management. The mechanism is established.