The Consumer Advocate is still reviewing Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro’s application for a rate increase this fall. It would amount to 7.6 per cent, or almost one cent per kilowatt.
The utility, which supplies Newfoundland Power with most of its electricity, says the rising cost of a barrel of oil is the primary reason for the increase.
Dennis Browne says the Public Utilities Board will give it a thorough examination as will Newfoundland Power.
He says that for probably the first time in their history, Newfoundland Power is not experiencing any growth so it wants to keep rates as low as possible.