We know our customers are very interested in green energy sources, particularly solar energy. NB Power is also looking into more options when it comes to solar energy, including the Smartflower.
 
The Smartflower is currently on the market in other northern countries with weather patterns similar to Canada. We are currently testing the device at the Energy Control Centre in Marysville to see how well it is able to perform in New Brunswick. The Smartflower is the first of its kind in New Brunswick and will supply energy to the building while we measure its output and performance.
 
“The Smartflower product is an exciting development that provides a self-contained solution for consumers who want to invest in green energy to supplement their energy usage,” said Tony O’Hara, Chief Technology Officer and Vice President of Engineering.
 
The Smartflower is more compact and attractive than traditional solar panels. The face of the flower follows the sun throughout the day, and the petals close after sunset or if it becomes too windy. It could generate enough energy to power a summer cottage.
 
This is just one of the many forms of technology NB Power is looking at to meet the needs of our customers.  In the future, we are looking to provide more and more products and services for New Brunswickers who want to integrate green energy in their households.
 
“It is very important that NB Power be a leader in the promotion of renewable energy sources.  This is a small example of how we are doing just that,” O’Hara said.

EV drivers, it’s time to hit the road in New Brunswick. 

We’re excited introduce you to the eCharge Network- the first electric vehicle public charging network in our province. This network will include standard level 2 charging stations across New Brunswick and a fast-charging corridor along the TransCanada Highway, from Edmundston to Aulac.

Encouraging more New Brunswickers to drive EVs is an essential part of our plan to support climate change action. In New Brunswick, an electric vehicle owner can shrink their carbon footprint by approximately 80%, thanks to our renewable and non-emitting energy supply. By the end of July 2017, EV drivers will be able to pull up to one of the 10 DC fast chargers along the Trans-Canada highway and recharge their EV’s battery in about 30 minutes. With less time spent charging up your car, you can spend more time on the road, exploring all the great things New Brunswick has to offer- whether you’re from here, or just visiting.

So, where can you charge up?

By the end of July you can find the DC Fast Chargers along the TransCanada at the following locations:

• Edmundston Truck Stop, Edmundston
• Irving Oil Grand Falls Big Stop, Grand Falls (St. André)
• Johnson Guardian, Perth-Andover
• Murray’s Irving, Woodstock
• Petro-Canada, Prince William
• Irving Oil Lincoln Big Stop, Lincoln (Waasis)
• Youngs Cove Irving Oil, Youngs Cove
• Irving Oil Salisbury Big Stop, Salisbury
• Magnetic Hill Irving, Moncton
• Irving Oil Aulac Big Stop, Aulac

In addition to the fast-charging corridor along the Trans-Canada highway, NB Power will install fast-charge sites at five locations throughout northern New Brunswick in fall 2017, cost-shared with the New Brunswick government. Locations include the Restigouche, Chaleur and Miramichi regions, as well as the Acadian Peninsula.

Here’s a clip from NB Power President and CEO Gaëtan Thomas announcing the launch of the eCharge network on July 7 at the Atlantic Nationals Car Show in Moncton.

To find these stations as they become installed or level 2 chargers, check out our station map.

We’re working together with businesses, institutions, municipalities, and with support from important partners like Natural Resources Canada, to develop and grow the eCharge Network for the benefit of New Brunswick EV owners and those EV drivers visiting the province. 

Are you a business, municipal administrator or institutional representative who would like to offer EV-charging to your clients or residents? Learn more about becoming a charging network champion!

How much will it cost to use a fast charger? A standard level 2 charging station?

The charging rate is $15/hour, billed by the minute and based on the total time connected to the station. This rate is competitive with the industry standard. In order to use an eCharge Network charging station, EV drivers must become members of the network by signing up at eChargeNetwork.com. The rate fees for a standard charging station are either $1.50/hour (billed by the minute and based on the total time connected to the station) or $3.00/session, with the rate fee being set by the charging station owner.

Haven’t decided if you’re ready to make the switch to driving an EV? Check out this post to learn more about the benefits of making the switch to driving electric.