Despite a request from Common Council, it isn't looking good that Saint John Energy can absorb any proposed rate increases.
NB Power President Gaetan Thomas says a one-time rate hike is necessary to help pay for cost over-runs for the refurbishment of Point Lepreau.
President Eric Marr tells CHSJ News, rates represent 85% of Saint John Energy's costs of operating it's utility.
The application for the increase won't be submitted until after the reactor comes back on line which is now tentatively scheduled for February.
