New Brunswick Power’s attempt to avoid the Energy and Utilities Board review process for a proposed gas plant near Sackville was turned down by the regulator on Thursday. In July, the utility struck a deal with a private company to build and run a natural gas plant for 25 years. N.B. Power argued that this arrangement meant the project shouldn’t fall under its capital projects, which are subject to EUB review. However, the board disagreed, stating that the project presented financial risks that required scrutiny under the Electricity Act. The decision mandates a full regulatory review before the Tantramar project can proceed.
Board Chair Christopher Stewart emphasized that the project posed financial risks for N.B. Power, which could impact ratepayers, underscoring the importance of regulatory oversight. Moe Qureshi from the Conservation Council of New Brunswick welcomed the EUB’s ruling, highlighting the significance of accountability, fair rates, and environmental responsibility. The review dates are pending, but N.B. Power has committed to submitting its application promptly.
The proposed gas plant has faced opposition, with concerns raised about environmental and health impacts. Tantramar council recently urged government leaders and the project’s proponent, ProEnergy Canada, for more engagement and a comprehensive environmental assessment. Despite some opposition, the council did not take an official stance against the project in a previous meeting. Green Party MLA Megan Mitton has been vocal in her opposition, calling for increased transparency regarding the project’s costs.
A previous environmental assessment highlighted potential environmental impacts, including the discharge of “liquid effluents” into nearby wetlands and expected effects on groundwater and surface water quality. The community raised these concerns at a recent open house hosted by ProEnergy.