Should a 300MW Natural Gas Power Plant Be Built Near Marshdale?
Official title: Fast Acting Natural Gas Power Generation Facility – Marshdale
IESO Nova Scotia wants to build a fast-acting natural gas power plant in Pictou County. The facility would generate up to 300 megawatts of electricity for Nova Scotia's grid. Construction could start in 2027, with the plant running for at least 30 years. The Minister must decide by February 19, 2026 whether to approve it.
Why This Matters
Live near Lorne, Hopewell, or Eureka? This plant would be in your backyard for 30+ years. Natural gas plants affect local air quality and noise levels. Nova Scotia's energy mix matters for electricity rates and climate goals.
What Could Change
If approved, a 300MW gas plant with combustion turbines, access roads, and a substation would be built on PID 00910307. Construction would begin in 2027. The Minister could approve it with conditions, require further review, or reject it entirely.
Key Issues
- Should this natural gas facility be approved for construction in Pictou County?
- What environmental conditions should apply if the project proceeds?
- What are the impacts on nearby communities of Lorne, Hopewell, and Eureka?
How to Participate
- Review the EA Registration Document and Project Summary to understand what's being proposed.
- The comment period closed on February 9, 2026. Comments were accepted via the online form or by email to ea@novascotia.ca.