Smart Grid Asset Disposition and Updates to Solar Garden Program
Synapse evaluated Nova Scotia Power's proposed disposition of $1.7 million in assets from the Smart Grid Nova Scotia Project and revisions to the Solar Garden Rate Rider. The project involved regulatory and economic analysis of Nova Scotia Power's deferral and amortization request, including a review of customer bill impacts. Synapse assessed whether the proposal appropriately balanced utility cost recovery, ratepayer impacts, and intergenerational equity, and provided recommendations regarding amortization timing, rate impact transparency, and regulatory consistency.
In addition, Synapse analyzed Nova Scotia Power's proposed modifications to the Solar Garden Rate Rider, including changes to subscription fees, credits, and participation limits. Our evaluation considered bill impacts across customer classes, with particular focus on low-income participants and interactions with other solar programs. Based on our assessment, Synapse recommended improvements in customer communication regarding program changes and that, with their approval, low-income customers be transitioned to the Community Solar Program. In its December 17, 2025 Decision, the Nova Scotia Energy Board adopted Synapse's recommendations.