Time for realistic N.B. plans for economic, environmental benefits

Traditional territory of the Wabanaki Peoples/Fredericton — The Conservation Council of New Brunswick (CCNB) and the New Brunswick Anti-Shale Gas Alliance issued the following statement with respect to Repsol SA’s announcement that there is no business case for building an export liquefied natural gas plant at the Saint John LNG location. 

Premier Blaine Higgs pushed a private-sector company, Repsol, to convert its Saint John LNG (liquefied natural gas) import terminal into an export terminal for energy security, economic development and energy transition. The company now says, after completing a feasibility study, that there is no business case. 

“There never was a business, environmental, public health or climate case for the Saint John LNG project, including the unrealistic idea from Premier Higgs that the province would lift the shale gas moratorium to supply the Saint John LNG plant quickly and cost effectively,” says Jim Emberger, spokesperson for the New Brunswick Anti-Shale Gas Alliance. 

“We need a realistic energy plan for New Brunswick that delivers projects grounded in the reality of climate change, and that are fit for purpose in a decarbonized world. LNG and shale gas are not the answer,” says Dr. Louise Comeau, Co-interim executive director, Conservation Council of New Brunswick.

The province committed in its recent climate action plan to developing a clean electricity strategy for the province before 2025. New Brunswickers have consistently shown they prefer an energy system comprised primarily of renewable energy and energy efficiency. We need an inclusive and collaborative process that delivers a modern energy plan and we call on Premier Higgs to make that commitment today.

To arrange an interview, contact:

Jon MacNeill, communications director, Conservation Council of New Brunswick | jon.macneill@conservationcouncil.ca | 506.238.3539

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