N.B. Power has unveiled a new long-term plan that includes the implementation of large-scale battery storage in the province by 2035. This move comes after criticism of an outdated 2023 plan during discussions on the proposed Tantramar gas plant earlier this year.
The new integrated resource plan serves as N.B. Power’s strategy to ensure sufficient energy supply in the upcoming decades. It outlines the deployment of 500 megawatts of battery storage within the next ten years and proposes extending the operational lifespan of the Point Lepreau Nuclear Generating Station past its projected expiry year of 2042.
Furthermore, the plan emphasizes significant expansions in wind and solar energy generation, along with the potential incorporation of additional gas turbine facilities and new nuclear capacity at the Point Lepreau site.
Brad Coady, N.B. Power’s chief commercial officer, expressed optimism about the near-term implementation of battery technology. The utility had solicited proposals for 50-megawatt battery storage projects in 2023 and 2025, aiming to store energy for peak demand periods.
According to Coady, the utility is in the final stages of evaluating the latest proposals for battery projects. The plan indicates that the initial 500 megawatts of battery storage development is cost-competitive compared to traditional combustion turbine technology like the Tantramar gas plant.
However, Coady highlighted that the responses to N.B. Power’s requests for proposals in December 2025 may require government support to be financially viable. The utility is collaborating with federal authorities to explore cost-effective solutions for residents of New Brunswick.
The 2026 plan takes a neutral stance on nuclear technology, considering options ranging from large nuclear projects to small modular reactors. It contemplates adding 750 megawatts of new nuclear capacity at Point Lepreau by 2039 or 2040 and potentially introducing another nuclear initiative or refurbishing Point Lepreau by 2045.
Coady mentioned that the decision on future nuclear projects in New Brunswick would involve significant public policy considerations beyond N.B. Power’s scope. While the base plan excludes a new nuclear facility, the utility recognizes the value nuclear power brings to the overall energy system.
Addressing concerns about Lepreau’s maintenance costs, Coady acknowledged that repair expenses have contributed to N.B. Power’s growing debt. Despite this, he emphasized the long-term benefits of these investments and highlighted the importance of a diversified energy generation portfolio, comparing it to an orchestra where all components must harmonize for optimal performance.