Environmental panel gives conditional approval to Proposed N.S. LNG plant

An environmental panel has given conditional approval to a proposed liquefied natural gas plant on Nova Scotia’s east coast. The panel says the plant planned for Goldboro by Calgarybased Pieridae Energy Canada Ltd. can proceed. The panel assessed a number of environmental and socioeconomic factors, including the effects on groundwater and air quality, local marine and terrestrial habitat, the fishery, property values and employment. The report says the project would increase the province’s greenhouse gas emissions by about 18% above 2010 levels, while a number of fisheries in its general area would be compromised. However, it says there would be “extremely significant” economic and employment benefits to Guysborough County and the province. The report was submitted to Environment Minister Randy Delorey, who has until March 24 to issue a final decision on the project.