Should a 500 MW Natural Gas Power Plant Be Built Near Sarnia?
Official title: Riverside Generating Station Project
Atura Power wants to build a new natural gas power plant about 16 km south of Sarnia, Ontario. The facility would generate 500 megawatts of electricity and operate for at least 20 years. The federal government is gathering feedback on the initial project description before deciding how to proceed with the environmental assessment.
Why This Matters
Live in southwestern Ontario? This plant could affect local air quality and water use. Natural gas plants emit greenhouse gases, so climate-conscious Ontarians may want to weigh in. The project would also bring construction jobs and long-term energy supply to the region.
What Could Change
If approved, a 500 MW gas-fired power plant would be built in St. Clair Township. New transmission lines and natural gas infrastructure would follow. The environmental assessment will determine what conditions or mitigation measures are required.
Key Issues
- What are the potential environmental impacts of a new natural gas power plant?
- How will air quality and greenhouse gas emissions be managed?
- What effects could the project have on local water resources?
- What issues should be included in the environmental assessment?
How to Participate
- Review the summary of the Initial Project Description to understand what's being proposed.
- Submit your comments online through the project home page on the Canadian Impact Assessment Registry.
- If you prefer a different format, contact the Agency at Riverside@iaac-aeic.gc.ca.
Events
| Date | Event | Location | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|
| September 24, 2025 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM ET | Virtual Information Session (English) | Virtual | |
| September 25, 2025 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM ET | Virtual Information Session (French) | Virtual | |
| September 25, 2025 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM ET | Virtual Information Session (English - Evening) | Virtual |