NB Power Net Metering Guide: Rules and Rates in New Brunswick

Key Takeaways

• NB Power permits customer renewable generation installations up to 100 kW in nameplate capacity.
• Surplus generation is credited against utility bills at NB Power's avoided cost rate of approximately 6.77 cents per kWh.
• Excess energy credits roll forward month to month and expire annually on March 31 without cash compensation.
• Module-level rapid shutdown compliance is mandated under Canadian Electrical Code Rule 64-218 using solutions like Tigo TS4-A-F.
• Interconnection requires formal utility approval, bi-directional metering, and an electrical permit.

NB Power Net Metering Framework: Capacity and Compensation

In New Brunswick, grid interconnection for residential, commercial, and agricultural renewable energy generation is administered by NB Power under the provincial Electricity Act and oversight from the New Brunswick Energy and Utilities Board (NBEUB).

Under provincial guidelines, the NB Power Net Metering Program permits customer generation installations up to 100 kW in size. This broad 100 kW capacity ceiling accommodates residential homes as well as commercial woodlots, dairy farms, and municipal buildings.

The financial and billing mechanics operate as follows:

• Monthly Load Offsetting: Solar electricity generated on-site directly offsets domestic retail power consumption (~14¢/kWh).
• Avoided Cost Credit Rate: Surplus generation in New Brunswick is compensated at NB Power's avoided cost energy rate, averaging approximately 6.77 cents per kWh.
• Annual Expiry Date: Accumulated net metering credits expire annually on March 31 without financial compensation. Because credits do not roll past March 31, installers size arrays to match annual consumption rather than overproducing.
• Formal Agreement: Customer-generators must sign a formal net metering interconnection agreement with NB Power prior to energization.

Rapid Shutdown Safety Compliance: Tigo TS4-A-F Technology

Because residential rooftop photovoltaic systems operate at high DC voltages, safety codes require immediate de-energization during emergencies to protect first responders and utility line workers.

Under the Canadian Electrical Code (CSA C22.1) Rule 64-218, rapid shutdown is mandatory on all rooftop photovoltaic systems. Tigo Energy's TS4 platform provides industry-standard module-level power electronics for rapid shutdown:

• Module-Level Integration: The TS4-A-F enables cost effective rapid shutdown functionality in a 1 module configuration.
• International Standards: The TS4-A-F is both IEC and UL certified for global acceptance and Canadian Electrical Code compliance.
• PLC Communication: Utilizes a transmitter which communicates with the TS4-A-F over PLC enabling plug and play installations.
• Simplified Mechanical Grounding: The unit features a frame clip where module frame for easy mounting does not require ground wire.
• Warranty and System Layout: Backed by a 25-year warranty configuration 1 module per TS4 required RSS transmitter.
• High Wattage Capacity: The Tigo TS4-A-F dedicated rapid shutdown device for 1 solar module up to 725W accommodates modern large-format commercial and residential modules.
• PVRSS Certification: The Tigo rapid shutdown system (RSS) transmitter enables UL PVRSS certification.
• Inverter Broad Compatibility: Achieves UL PV rapid shutdown system (PVRSS) certification with hundreds of inverters for rapid shutdown compliance.
• Operational Performance: The TS4 platform increases solar production decreases operating costs and enhances safety.
• Dedicated Hardware Architecture: Tigo's fire safety line of TS4 are completely dedicated to the rapid shutdown function and communication via PLC with the RSS.

Interconnection Procedures and Permitting in New Brunswick

To connect a solar generating system in New Brunswick, property owners must complete a structured multi-step process:

1. Utility Application: Submit the NB Power Net Metering application detailing inverter specifications, array capacity, single-line diagrams, and site plans.
2. Electrical Permitting: Obtain an electrical wiring permit through the New Brunswick Department of Public Safety.
3. Certified Installation: All wiring must be installed by a licensed electrician adhering to CSA C22.1 Section 64 standards.
4. Bi-Directional Meter Exchange: NB Power installs a bi-directional revenue meter to measure grid imports and surplus exports.

While federal Greener Homes Grant and Loan programs are closed to new applicants, clean energy systems in New Brunswick deliver reliable, long-term electricity bill savings. For a national overview, consult our analysis of solar panels cost and payback by province.