N.B. Power Announces New Deals to Boost Tantramar Gas Plant Capacity

N.B. Power is set to enhance the capacity of the proposed Tantramar gas and diesel power plant. This move comes ahead of a five-day hearing scheduled to commence in Moncton on Monday.

N.B. Power’s Agreement with Nova Scotia

The utility has secured a crucial agreement with Nova Scotia’s Independent Energy System Operator. This deal allows for the sale of 100 megawatts of power from the planned facility over the next decade. Consequently, the Tantramar plant near Centre Village will be able to produce up to 500 megawatts as needed.

Amendments to ProEnergy Agreement

• The arrangement with ProEnergy, responsible for constructing and operating the power plant, has also been modified.
• The revised contract now requires regulatory approval by June 2, extending the original deadline of April 2.

The updated timeline may provide N.B. Power necessary breathing room, considering the feedback from public interveners.

Public Interveners Raise Concerns

Alain Chiasson, a public intervener representing community concerns, has requested a delay of the hearing. He argues that recent changes significantly alter the project’s financial landscape. Chiasson emphasizes that understanding the details is crucial for proper examination of the utility’s claims.

Expert Opinions

Two independent experts have expressed skepticism regarding the utility’s rationale for the gas and diesel plant. They identified outdated analyses and potential errors in N.B. Power’s initial assessments. Chiasson noted that while the new agreements might not change their core opinions, they still bring several questions to the fore.

Implications of Late Evidence Submission

Concerns have also been raised about the timing of N.B. Power’s new evidence. Lisa Griffin, a member of the Protect the Chignecto Isthmus Coalition, noted the late submission limits the ability of interveners to review and respond adequately. She questioned whether this was a strategic move by N.B. Power aimed at sidestepping thorough scrutiny.

Regulatory Board’s Response

The Energy and Utilities Board chair, Christopher Stewart, announced that the new evidence would be considered during the hearings. Interveners will have the option to extend the hearing if needed to discuss the implications of these changes. Stewart admitted that while the situation isn’t ideal, the board must address issues as they arise.

Expansion Opportunities and Financial Risks

N.B. Power has pointed to potential additional sales of another 100 megawatts to third parties in the Maritimes. This expansion could help lower overall costs, benefiting New Brunswick ratepayers through shared fixed costs.

In a briefing note dated December 17, 2025, N.B. Power underscored the risks associated with not finalizing the deal with ProEnergy. The note highlighted potential financial pitfalls and reaffirmed the urgency of project completion to avoid power capacity issues.

Despite these assurances, Griffin remains skeptical. She challenges the motivations behind the late-stage changes and calls for increased transparency from N.B. Power regarding its strategic decisions.

The upcoming hearings will be crucial in determining the future of the Tantramar gas plant and the validity of N.B. Power’s revised proposals. Stakeholders await the board’s decision, which could shape the energy landscape in New Brunswick.