Newfoundland Power Receives Customer Pressure that has Prompted the Province to Consider Reviewing Privacy laws

Newfoundland Power

November 9, 2017

The provincial government is open to exploring changes to privacy laws after a number of people complained about Newfoundland Power using their information without consent.

During Question Period on Tuesday afternoon, Justice Minister Andrew Parsons said he is open to look at changing laws.

“When we talk about something so important as power and people having access and being disconnected, it is something we take concern with,” he said. “Happy to look at it.”

The minister’s comments came in response to a question from NDP housing critic Gerry Rogers, who took a stance against Newfoundland Power after a CBC News story last week.

Several people complained the utility company got hold of their private information without consent and used it to have their power disconnected.

In each case, the utility company called landlords and asked who was living in their rental units. When it was disclosed a person with an outstanding electricity bill was living on the premises, power was either cut or threatened to be cut.

Three people spoke with CBC News and said they were told their electricity would only be turned back on when the bill was paid or the tenant was evicted.

Newfoundland and Labrador does not have a law against this sort of disclosure, although Rogers said provinces like British Columbia and Alberta require the consent of the tenant before information is disclosed to a debt collector.

“As with any valid concern that’s brought to my attention, or to our attention, we are always open to considering legislative reform and ensuring our laws are there for the best of all people in the province,” Parsons responded.

Complaint filed with federal authority

Kate Underhill, who shared her experience with CBC News last week, has since filed a complaint with the Federal Office of the Privacy Commissioner.

She was living with her boyfriend in Mount Pearl up until last week, when Newfoundland Power disconnected their electricity.

Underhill owes just under $1,500 to the utility company, but said she is on a payment plan.

The couple’s landlord disclosed the names of her tenants to Newfoundland Power without their consent, Underhill said.

Under the federal Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA), an organization is required to have consent before disclosing or using personal information. Both Newfoundland Power and a landlord would be considered organizations.

However, there is a clause that states an organization may disclose or use information if it is required by law.

Newfoundland Power said its regulations have the force of law and were approved by the Public Utilities Board.

Underhill believes her situation may violate a separate part of the act, which stipulates personal information may be used only for purposes “a reasonable person would consider are appropriate.”

“We take the position that the way they collect, and use, the information about other occupants is not something a reasonable person would consider appropriate,” the complaint reads.

A decision on the matter could take upwards of one year.

Related Articles


Latest Articles

  • The Non-Residential Sector Declines in All Three Components Despite Sustained Industrial Permit Level

    The Non-Residential Sector Declines in All Three Components Despite Sustained Industrial Permit Level

    November 4, 2024 The total value of building permits in Canada decreased by $858.1 million (-7.0%) to $11.5 billion in August, following a strong July during which construction intentions rose sharply (+20.8%). The residential and non-residential sectors contributed to the decrease in August. On a constant dollar basis (2017=100), the total value of building permits decreased 7.6% in… Read More…

  • A Slight Decrease in Residential Building Construction for August

    A Slight Decrease in Residential Building Construction for August

    November 4, 2024 Investment in building construction edged up 0.2% to $21.0 billion in August, after a 1.6% decrease in July. The residential sector edged down (-0.1%) to $14.6 billion, while the non-residential sector was up 1.0% to $6.4 billion. Year over year, investment in building construction grew 7.2% in August. On a constant dollar basis (2017=100), investment in building construction was… Read More…

  • When a Familiar Door Closes

    When a Familiar Door Closes

    November 4, 2024 By Keith Sones, seasoned utility industry executive Most of the articles I’ve written have been based on personal experiences, many of them occurring decades ago, which eventually translate into helpful life lessons. The years allow the events to marinate in a savoury stew of time and reflection, clarity never coming immediately, or even… Read More…

  • Regulatory Changes to Manitoba Apprenticeship and Certification System

    Regulatory Changes to Manitoba Apprenticeship and Certification System

    November 4, 2024 Effective October 30, 2024, Manitoba’s apprenticeship and certification system will undergo regulatory changes. These changes aim to enhance responsiveness to industry needs, align with Red Seal standards, and improve the quality of apprentice training and safety. Go HERE for more information Source Read More…


Changing Scene