Partner, MJSWM Barristers, Canada

Track C, Session 9

SHORT BIOGRAPHY

One of Atlantic Canada’s most prominent counsel, John has provided legal representation on a wide range of high-profile matters including serving as Counsel to the Commissioner of the Public Inquiry into the Westray Mine Disaster and as Consumer Advocate in electric power rate applications.
In addition to his practice, he teaches at Dalhousie Law School and has participated as organizer and faculty in a number of professional education programs. He is a fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, is listed in the LEXPERT Directory of the 500 Leading Lawyers in Canada and is recognized by LEXPERT as a most frequently recommended lawyer in Construction Law, Commercial Insurance Litigation and Corporate Commercial Litigation. He is also listed in Best Lawyers in Canada.

ABSTRACT SUMMARY

“Affordable Power to the People”

Energy is not just a commodity. In many situations it is an essential similar to food and shelter. With the cost of energy to consumers experiencing sharp and substantial increases and fluctuations there are increasing calls to both legislators and regulators to provide relief to low or fixed income ratepayers.
This presentation will address the questions of the extent to which regulators have, or should have, the jurisdiction and responsibility to provide rates that address the circumstances of those suffering from “energy poverty”, whether low income consumers are a classification that should get distinct treatment and what options regulators may have.
The presentation will also share some recent experiences of Canadian courts and regulators in facing these issues. 

He has, last minute, canceled.