New Brunswick's energy revolution

New Brunswick is reshaping its electricity generation, distribution, and consumption to meet ambitious climate objectives while securing long-term economic prosperity. The province has defined a definitive and unwavering course towards a sustainable energy future through its comprehensive strategy, "Powering our Economy and the World with Clean Energy – Our Path Forward to 2035."

In December 2023, the Government of New Brunswick announced its comprehensive energy strategy titled "Powering our Economy and the World with Clean Energy – Our Path Forward to 2035." This roadmap charts an authoritative course to revolutionise the province's energy sector over a 12-year period. The strategy follows six principles.

1. New Brunswick will capitalise on its unique assets, geographical position, and natural resources to develop lower-carbon energy solutions for provincial, regional, and global markets.

2. The province will establish hydrogen infrastructure and other clean energy solutions, positioning itself as a magnet for new business opportunities.

3. Implement Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) non-intermittent, low-carbon generation capacity.

4. Develop new clean energy supply chains to strengthen its competitive edge.

5. Enhance economic partnerships with First Nations communities.

6. Achieve energy security and net-zero emissions.

Nuclear Small Modular Reactors (SMR) and Point Lepreau

The province is doubling its carbon-free nuclear baseload generation by introducing 600 MW of SMR capacity at the Point Lepreau Nuclear Generation Station by 2035. The initial deployment of 150 MWe of SMR capacity is scheduled for 2030-2031, followed by an additional 450 MWe by 2035.

The federal government has is investing $25 million through Natural Resources Canada's Electricity Predevelopment Programme for initial development work at Point Lepreau, with a further $7 million allocated for ARC Clean Technology Canada's small modular reactor.

Renewable energy expansion

The province is expanding renewable energy capacity nearly five-fold, particularly in wind and solar, marking an unambiguous commitment to maximising its abundant natural resources. In December 2024, NB Power announced 670 megawatts of new wind power. Federal support of up to $1 billion underlines the government's dedication to Indigenous-led wind projects, bolstered by an additional $500,000 for the North Shore Mi'kmaq Council to support Indigenous participation in clean energy initiatives.

The Neweg Energy Project exemplifies this vision, a collaborative initiative between Mi'gmaq First Nations, NB Power, and Natural Forces. Scheduled for completion by December 2025, the project will deliver nearly 100 GWh annually, providing sustainable power to 8,000 homes and reinforcing the province's commitment to Indigenous partnerships.

Hydrogen Economy and Alternative Fuels

The province's Hydrogen Roadmap outlines plans for 'hydrogen hubs' dedicated to production, transportation, and export to European markets. As a founding member of the Atlantic Canada Hydrogen Alliance, New Brunswick is setting the pace for regional development.

Regulatory advancements include amendments to the Gas Distribution Act and Pipeline Act, ensuring a modern framework for renewable gas and hydrogen integration into the province's energy system.

Coal phase-out and Belledune conversion

New Brunswick's strategy includes a decisive phase-out of coal by 2030, with the Belledune Generating Station transitioning to sustainably sourced biomass.

Federal collaboration under the Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways Programme (SREPs) and targeted investments in planning and engineering studies ensure the success of this transition.

Grid infrastructure and regional integration

The federal government has funded preliminary work on the Atlantic Loop transmission line, strengthening the province's connectivity with Nova Scotia and enabling broader integration of renewable resources.

The New Brunswick Energy Cluster will be a catalyst for innovation and investment, ensuring inclusive participation across government, industry, and academia. Indigenous partnerships remain paramount with projects such as Neweg.