January 18, 2019
New Brunswick

Utility pitches $30M wind turbine project

Barbara Simpson | Telegraph-Journal | January 17, 2019 | www.telegraphjournal.com

SAINT JOHN • A $30-million wind farm could be built in Saint John, creating jobs and stabilizing power rates for the Port City.

Saint John Energy announced Thursday it will issue a request for proposal inviting developers to build a wind energy project in the Spruce Lake Industrial Park. That’s expected to include between five and 10 turbines producing 20 to 40 megawatts of energy.

The city-owned utility will buy the energy back from the successful developer who will design, build, own and operate the wind farm.

“This is an exciting time for our company and for our region,” said Ray Robinson, president and CEO of Saint John Energy, in a press release.

“It provides us with opportunities to grow local renewable energy expertise, create jobs and attract businesses looking for greener and more diverse energy options.”

The request for proposals is expected to be issued Friday. Proponents will be shortlisted in March, with the successful developer to be chosen in the summer, according to Saint John Energy.

Construction is expected to begin in 2020, and it could be operational as early as late 2021.

More to come…