Panel report gives proposed Nova Scotia LNG plant conditional approval

HALIFAX – 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 Calgary-based Pieridae Energy Canada can proceed.

The panel assessed a number of environmental and socio-economic 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 per cent 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.