| Probing the East Coast's power-generating potential |
Photo © BigStockPhoto.com In addition to transferring electricity from wind power, the proposed energy corridor can accommodate natural gas and petroleum product pipelines. New Brunswick could see construction of a new 1200 to 1500-MW power line to generate energy from wind and natural gas. Refiner and gasoline exporter Irving Oil—whose Canadian operations are based in Saint John—is investigating the possibility of this transmission line to the U.S. Northeast. Government and company officials view this potential energy line as part of an 'energy corridor' joining the province with the New England states. The proposed corridor will allow arrangement of multiple power lines, cables, and related infrastructure to adequately transfer power. From an economic perspective, the corridor can potentially increase supply of clean, renewable, greenhouse gas (GHG)-free energy, draw new investment, and create development opportunities. The power line can significantly enhance New Brunswick's wind energy potential. The project also includes a natural gas co-generator to supply baseload power for the line. The proposed facility would be situated near the company's liquefied natural gas (LNG) facility in Saint John. Irving Oil has been examining the possibility for about a year, and is currently conducting a commercial and technical feasibility study. The company estimates completion of the project's first phase would require an investment of several billion dollars.
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