A three-person independent panel tasked with reviewing NB Power says its work is well underway.
Anne Bertrand, Michael Bernstein and Duncan Hawthorne were tasked by the province to lead the review.
The review leads took questions from the public on Wednesday for the first time since the review began.
Bertrand, a former member of NB Power’s board, said they have already reviewed lots of material provided by the utility and the province.
She said the panel is currently working on a consultation plan, which will include engagement with the public and stakeholders.
“As you can appreciate, a lot of people want to talk to us, and that’s fantastic. We really look forward to that,” said Bertrand.
The three review leads made it clear throughout the one-hour session that their role is independent of government and the utility.
The review is focusing on four key areas: financial sustainability, governance structure, customer expectations, and opportunities for partnerships.
Bernstein is a senior executive with experience in the Canadian power, infrastructure and utilities sector and said all options are on the table.
“That could involve private-sector partnerships, it could involve mergers, it could involve working with other players to the benefit of New Brunswickers,” he said.
The review comes as more New Brunswickers grow frustrated with rising power bills, especially in recent months.
Provincial officials have not ruled out freezing rates or potentially selling the utility, but said they wanted the chance to hear from residents.
Final recommendations and any decisions related to the Crown corporation are expected by the end of March 2026.