Premier Susan Holt expressed her desire to explore an alternative location for a contentious natural gas power plant originally slated for a rural area in Tantramar. In an interview with CBC News on December 16, Holt acknowledged the community’s resistance and emphasized the importance of siting the plant where it is welcomed by locals.
Holt mentioned receiving a suggestion via Facebook for a potentially more suitable site 20 kilometers away from the current location. She stressed the need for community acceptance, noting the lack of support in Centre Village, a rural area within Tantramar.
Regarding N.B. Power’s leadership and site selection process, Holt refrained from offering explicit confidence, stating that while the utility had put in significant effort, scrutiny from the government and the Energy and Utilities Board was necessary to ensure thorough evaluation.
The decision to choose the Tantramar site was influenced by its proximity to existing transmission lines and the Maritimes and Northeast natural gas pipeline, essential for powering the turbines. However, the timeline for the project is tight, with EUB hearings scheduled for February and a looming deadline in April for the U.S.-based ProEnergy, the potential plant builder.
N.B. Power anticipates potential electricity generation shortfalls by 2028, prompting concerns about meeting peak demand, especially during winter months. Holt’s Energy Minister, René Legacy, highlighted apprehensions about energy deficiencies during periods of high demand.
The province faces challenges balancing the necessity for additional power generation, particularly to support renewable energy sources like wind and solar, with addressing local opposition. Holt emphasized the importance of ensuring the project’s safety and minimal disruption to surrounding communities.
While Holt appeared resigned to the Tantramar site, she reiterated the government’s commitment to listening to public feedback. The premier’s approach to considering diverse viewpoints and balancing the needs of various stakeholders remains a crucial aspect of her leadership.
Looking ahead, Holt faces pivotal decisions concerning N.B. Power’s future, with a report from a review panel expected by March 31. The premier indicated a proactive stance in addressing the recommendations swiftly and hinted at the possibility of a cabinet shuffle in the coming year, albeit without a definitive timeline in place.