The Holt Liberal government is indicating that it will not mandate an extensive environmental impact assessment for a contentious natural gas plant proposed in Tantramar. Environment Minister Gilles LePage stated during a legislative session that he does not see the need for such a review at this point. Instead, the standard determination review process will address the concerns and inquiries raised about the 500-megawatt plant proposal.
LePage assured Tantramar Green MLA Megan Mitton that if any new information emerges indicating the necessity of a comprehensive review, the government will reconsider its stance. The government is currently addressing public concerns and ensuring that the plant’s developer addresses and minimizes any potential impacts.
The proposed plant, which N.B. Power has contracted U.S.-based ProEnergy to construct, aims to provide backup power for renewable energy sources on the grid, resulting in an overall reduction of 250,000 tons of greenhouse gas emissions. However, local opponents argue that the environmental impact, particularly on wildlife and wetlands, may be more significant than projected and have called for a comprehensive assessment.
Premier Susan Holt has acknowledged the public’s questions and concerns regarding the project and is evaluating whether a detailed assessment is warranted based on established policies and procedures. LePage indicated that a decision on the need for a comprehensive environmental review is nearly finalized.
ProEnergy’s proposal includes a plant with 10 turbines capable of generating 500 megawatts, although the agreement with N.B. Power specifies 400 megawatts from eight turbines. LePage did not provide further details to reporters before leaving the legislature, prompting disappointment from Mitton, who emphasized the importance of utilizing available tools to address the situation effectively.