Submissions to UARB argue in favour of automatic interrupter clause

Three of four submissions to the provincial regulator say gas prices should be automatically reset during big market swings, and not left to the board’s discretion.

The Herald reports Loblaw Co. Ltd, Wilson Fuel Co., and Suncor Energy tell the Utility and Review Board they support a clear policy on triggering the interupter clause.

The Retail Gasoline Dealers Association of Nova Scotia says it prefers things as they are now.

The UARB is reviewing the use of the interrupter clause, at the direction of Premier Darrell Dexter.

Dexter suggested an automatic trigger should be considered, after large market shifts in May occurred without corresponding changes in Nova Scotia’s regulated gas prices.

Loblaw and wilson argue anything from a three to six cent swing over a couple of days should trigger the interrupter clause, while suncor energy would like to see a free market appraoch.

Graham Conrad of the dealers’ association argues an automatic trigger may be “tricked” by a large shift that comes and goes quickly, resulting in a change at the pumps which can have a significant impact on retailers.

the board will make its recommendation to the provincial government in the next 90 days.

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