If you live in New Brunswick, you will soon see a major shift in how your electricity is generated. The Belledune generating station will stay open past 2030 by swapping coal for sustainable wood and hemp pellets.

According to a recent report from CBC News, NB Power secured agreements with local and national producers to supply the new biomass fuel.

Slashing Emissions and Meeting Deadlines

Federal rules force coal generation to end by 2030. This 65 million dollar conversion project ensures the plant meets that deadline while cutting carbon dioxide emissions by 70 percent.

NB Power President and CEO Lori Clark called the move an accomplishment to be proud of. She noted the plant is moving from the most greenhouse gas intensive energy generator in the province to the largest renewable generator.

The Cost of Going Green

Pellets cost more than coal. Clark confirmed the price increase but called it the most affordable option for New Brunswickers to meet the 2030 deadline.

Premier Susan Holt noted that a diverse mix of energy sources helps the province use the most affordable power available when demand spikes.

Local Jobs and First Nations Partnerships

The transition brings economic benefits to northern New Brunswick. NB Power estimates the fuel supply development will create 700 to 1000 jobs in the community. The plant currently employs about 130 people and 40 contractors.

A new company will set up at the Port of Belledune. Pabineau First Nation, Eel River Bar First Nation, Arbec Forest Products, and Quebec based Airex Energy are partnering to produce the pellets.

Using Forest Leftovers

The process relies on forest byproducts called slash. Workers will not cut down whole trees to make the pellets.

Airex Energy CEO Michel Gagnon explained that removing slash from the forest floor helps prevent wildfires caused by lightning strikes.

NB Power expects the plant to run fully on pellets by November 2029.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the Belledune plant stop using coal?

The plant will fully convert to wood and hemp pellets by November 2029.

How much does the conversion cost?

NB Power expects the transition to cost 65 million dollars.

Will this increase power rates?

Wood pellets cost more than coal. However, NB Power states this is the most affordable option to meet the federal 2030 coal ban.

Does making wood pellets destroy forests?

No. The producers use leftover forest byproducts, known as slash, rather than cutting down whole trees.