New Brunswick’s primary electricity distributor is seeking government approval to restore and maintain the Mactaquac Generating Station until 2068.
NB Power announced Tuesday it has asked the Government of New Brunswick to review a project to rehabilitate what it calls New Brunswick’s “most reliable” producer of renewable energy.
Lori Clark, president and CEO of NB Power, said the project represents the Crown corporation’s most significant investment in clean energy in more than 50 years.
“Maintaining this important generation asset will help enable New Brunswick to achieve a net-zero electricity system and support global efforts to tackle climate change,” she said.
Constructed in 1968, the Mactaquac dam has been the subject of many maintenance issues related to expanding concrete and aging infrastructure over the last two decades. The project would include repairs to concrete and the replacement of equipment.
The project will also enhance upstream and downstream fish passage for species native to the Wolastoq (Saint John River).
“We believe this project brings key economic and environmental benefits to New Brunswick,” said Clark, adding the utility will consider all environment, community and Indigenous concerns as it moves forward.
Pending provincial approval, construction would begin in 2024.