Public asked to comment on proposed natural gas power facilities in Pictou County, N.S.

The public is asked to provide feedback on two proposed gas facilities in Pictou County, N.S.

The public is invited to comment on two proposed natural gas power generation facilities in Pictou County, N.S., that would seek to compensate for renewable energy whenever it does not meet demand.

The Independent Energy System Operator (IESO) Nova Scotia has pitched the two separate facilities – one in Marshdale and the other in Salt Springs – to the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada, which has accepted the initial project descriptions.

“Under Nova Scotia’s Clean Power Plan, the province must stop using coal fired electricity by 2030 and have 80% of electricity come from renewable sources,” the project descriptions read. “The facility would provide foundational, reliable power to Nova Scotia’s electrical system and represents the most cost-effective path toward grid decarbonization.

“The Project will consist of a simple cycle combustion turbine generating station, fueled primarily with natural gas and the ability to switch to light fuel oil as necessary.”

According to the Assessment Agency, each facility would generate up to 300 megawatts and would be expected to be operational for at least 30 years.

The Marshdale project, if approved, would be built within 55.95 hectares of privately-owned land while the Salt Springs project would cover 72.08 hectares of privately-owned land. Both spots were chosen due to their proximity to the electricity grid and natural gas supply.

IESO Nova Scotia is proposing to start construction at both sites by Dec. 31, 2027, and starting commercial operation in the fall of 2029.

The Assessment Agency is inviting the public to provide comments on the proposed projects. Online comments must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on Feb. 9.

There will be virtual information sessions on Jan. 20 and 21.

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