Newfoundland and Labrador NDP Leader Jim Dinn is pledging a full, independent investigation into skyrocketing power rates should his party form government, following revelations that Newfoundland Power and Fortis have donated nearly $400,000 to the Liberal and Conservative parties since 2010.
“Let’s be honest, power bills have gotten out of control. I hear from folks just about every day who are stretching every dollar they have just to keep the heat on,” said Dinn. “And while your bills have been skyrocketing, so have the donations from Newfoundland Power and Fortis to both the Liberals and Conservatives.”
According to official donor records, Newfoundland Power and Fortis contributed a combined $196,520 to the Liberal Party and $181,050 to the Progressive Conservatives between 2010 and 2024, a total of $377,570. Notably, over $100,000 of that – $50,000 to each party – was donated in just the last two years, a period marked by significant increases in power rates for consumers.
Dinn questioned the timing and influence of these donations.
“People have a right to know: how much money did the Liberals and Conservatives get from Newfoundland Power in 2025, ahead of the election? And is that why both parties were fine with Newfoundland Power investigating itself?”
Earlier this year, after widespread public backlash over winter power bills that jumped by hundreds of dollars, the Public Utilities Board (PUB) directed Newfoundland Power to conduct an internal investigation. The utility ultimately cleared itself of wrongdoing and the PUB accepted those findings.
“That’s just not good enough,” said Dinn. “Companies don’t get to investigate themselves when real concerns are being raised by the public. That’s not an independent process. People have questions, and they deserve real answers.”
Dinn announced that an NL NDP government would launch an independent investigation into power rate hikes – led by a credible third party with experience in utility oversight. He pointed to groups like Liberty Consulting Group, which have conducted similar reviews in the past.
“This is about transparency and accountability,” said Dinn. “Whether it’s red or blue, there’s nothing new. It’s just the same old politics. This election is about real change and getting a better deal for the people of Newfoundland and Labrador.”