Regulator rejects N.B. Power's effort to skip review of Tantramar gas plant
Decision means the Energy and Utilities Board will study project risks, hear arguments from stakeholders
N.B. Power's push to bypass the Energy and Utilities Board review process for a proposed gas plant outside Sackville was rejected by its regulator on Thursday.
In July, the utility entered into an agreement to pay a private company to design, construct, operate and maintain a natural gas plant over a 25-year period.
Because of that, the Crown corporation argued in a motion to the EUB, the project shouldn't be considered a capital project belonging to N.B. Power.
Under the province's Electricity Act, the board only has the authority to review capital projects of the Crown corporation.
But the EUB disagrees with the utility's interpretation, board chair Christopher Stewart said an oral decision delivered by videoconference.
Instead, the board found the project exposes N.B. Power to exactly the kind of financial risk that the Electricity Act is meant to address — and does warrant a review.
"This arrangement does not eliminate the risk to N.B. Power that the project may later be found to be imprudent," Stewart said.
"It only captures certain sources of risk and transforms them into a cost, for which N.B. Power will ultimately seek recovery from ratepayers."
He noted that reviews give the board an opportunity to assess the financial prudence of a capital project. It also gives interested parties the opportunity to submit arguments for or against the project.
Moe Qureshi, an intervener with the Conservation Council of New Brunswick, welcomed the EUB decision.
"This is a win for accountability, ratepayers and climate responsibility," Qureshi said after the decision was read. "We're happy this project will be reviewed."
Hearing dates for the review have yet to be set, but N.B. Power counsel John G. Furey told the chair the utility would submit its application by the end of Monday.
But Stewart said the board wants to give interested parties enough time to "fairly determine" if they want to intervene in the application.
N.B. Power has said the plant is necessary because of a potential energy shortfall as early as 2027, but the idea has proven to be controversial.
On Wednesday night, Tantramar council unanimously passed a motion to formally ask provincial and federal government leaders and the project proponent, Missouri-based ProEnergy Canada, for more engagement and a full environmental impact assessment.
But the council also narrowly voted against taking an official stance to oppose the project, in an earlier meeting.
Megan Mitton, the Green Party MLA for the area, has been vocally opposed to the project and believes there should be greater transparency about the cost.
This summer an open house held by ProEnergy drew about 170 community members, who raised concerns about potential environmental and health impacts.
According to a 2025 environmental assessment, it's possible that "liquid effluents" will be discharged into the nearby wetland, and effects on the quality and quantity of groundwater and surface water are expected.
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With files from Bob Jones
Proponent of natural gas plant to Tantramar council: 'Fact-check me'
ProEnergy Canada's John MacIsaac says councillors should look to N.B. Power for answers
The executive in charge of building a proposed natural gas plant in rural Tantramar told local politicians this week to talk to N.B. Power if they want answers on why their southeastern New Brunswick community was chosen for the project.
John MacIsaac of ProEnergy Canada appeared before Tantramar council Tuesday evening to face questions about the project.
But councillors weren't sure they were getting the answers they needed about the plant, which would be capable of generating up to 500 megawatts of power from up to 10 turbines.
“Unfortunately, you're the wrong person to be here tonight, because we should be asking N.B. Power questions, not you,” said Coun. Josh Goguen, eliciting applause from the capacity crowd in Tantramar’s municipal council chambers in Sackville.
MacIsaac seemed to agree with Goguen and told councillors they should ask N.B. Power for a copy of a report on how Centre Village was chosen over other possible sites such as the Scoudouc Industrial Park.
“I had asked them to put together an executive summary on the siting process,” MacIsaac said. “I'd encourage you to go and ask them for it.”
Last month, councillors decided against becoming an official opponent of the plant, which was announced last December.
Tantramar Mayor Andrew Black called for N.B. Power to make an appearance at a future council meeting.
“A lot of these questions need to be asked directly to that company,” Black told council.
“I think if N.B. Power had actually invested in renewable energy, like people have been telling them [since] 20 to 25 years ago, we wouldn't be even having this conversation right now.”
Despite the calls to hear from the Crown corporation, councillors grilled MacIsaac for just under an hour. If the plant wins approval from other levels of government, preliminary work could start early next year, and the plant could be running about midway through 2028.
Coun. Debbie Wiggins-Colwell asked MacIsaac about the wisdom of locking into “such a big operation,” over a 25-year period.
“Maybe down the road, things could be smaller and less intrusive on the environment,” Wiggins-Colwell said.
MacIsaac responded by pitching the 10-turbine plant as needed to maintain stability in the N.B. Power grid.
“This is predominantly a synchronous condensing facility to enable renewables,” said MacIsaac, referring to the plan to run the turbines 85 per cent of the time without burning gas or generating energy, but simply to provide voltage support to the grid.
This need can become more acute with an increased reliance on renewable energy sources, he said.
The possible need for turbines to provide grid stability is not mentioned in N.B. Power’s 2023 Integrated Resource Plan. The terms “synchronous condensing” or “voltage support” aren't mentioned either.
Brad Coady, a vice-president at N.B. Power, recently told a legislative committee earlier that the proposed gas plant was actually born out of predictions that the utility might run short of base load power by 2028.
That “triggered a bunch of activities that led to us doing a request for proposals in the summer of 2024,” Coady said. “And ultimately led us to where we are today, with the chosen technological solution and partner for the delivery of that project.”
N.B. Power originally asked for proposals for a plant to deliver up to 400 megawatts of power, but ProEnergy has been seeking approval for up to 500.
A number of councillors, including Allison Butcher, expressed mistrust of MacIsaac based on the company's previous claim to a partnership with the North Shore Mi'kmaq Tribal Council.
“There are no Indigenous groups that are backing this right now,” Butcher said. “So when I hear these great news things about how it will work, I can't, in good faith, believe it.”
MacIsaac defended the company with an invitation to “fact-check me.” He suggested council file a formal access to information request for “supporting documents" provided with its response to the utility's request for proposals.
When Coun. Michael Tower pressed MacIsaac to explain why company posters at public information sessions stated the project was happening “in partnership” with the NSMTC, he stated simply: “Our public messaging was based on our understanding at the time.”
Tantramar MLA Megan Mitton has been a vocal opponent to the gas plant plan, and was at Tuesday’s meeting.
Afterward, Mitton said that she had recently learned the plant would cost N.B. Power at least $1 billion over the course of the 25-year agreement with ProEnergy.
“Who knows actually how much?” Mitton said. “They won't tell us how much.”
She said she was “floored” by how little information was shared on Tuesday.
“It's really frustrating to see this still, a lack of transparency when that's one of the key things the community is demanding, in addition to them not building a gas plant.”
At the end of their meeting, Tantramar council passed a unanimous motion calling for formal letters to Premier Susan Holt, Beausejour MP Dominic LeBlanc, New Brunswick Environment Minister Gilles LePage, N.B. Power CEO Lori Clark, and MacIsaac, calling for more engagement on the project, as well as a comprehensive environmental impact assessment.
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New Brunswick's energy regulator promises decision 'soon' on generating station review
Facility would be built by a private company but used by N.B. Power, lawyer tells EUB
The lawyer for New Brunswick's three municipal utilities is urging N.B. Power regulators to take a broad view of its powers and undertake a full review of a proposed natural gas generating station to be built in Tantramar, N.B., near the Nova Scotia border.
"It would be a very large hole in the regulatory scheme if generating facilities that N.B. Power refers to as critical are not being reviewed," said Ryan Burgoyne during closing arguments in front of the New Brunswick Energy and Utilities Board.
Provincial legislation requires the board to hold hearings into any N.B. Power capital project that will exceed $50 million in expenditures.
However, the utility is asking for a ruling that exempts the proposed new generating station, which will cost several hundred million dollars to construct, from that provision.
The
natural gas generating station proposed for southeastern New Brunswick
is expected to be a similar design to this facility in Rosharon Texas,
according to the proponent ProEnergy. The EUB is deciding whether N.B.
Power is involved enough to require a full regulatory review. (Submitted by ProEnergy)
In a special arrangement with N.B. Power, the private company ProEnergy will build, own and operate the generating station, with the utility obliged to pay for the station's entire output for 25 years.
That arrangement should place the facility outside of the EUB's legal review powers, according to N.B. Power and ProEnergy.
The EUB is now sorting through arguments for and against that position.
"We're here to try to determine what a particular section in a particular piece of legislation allows us to do," EUB chairperson Christopher Stewart said during the hearing.
Len
Hoyt represented ProEnergy at the hearings and backed N.B. Power's
position that the EUB does not have sufficient powers to review a
private power development like the one proposed in Tantramar. (Jonathan Collicott/CBC)
Burgoyne, who represents Saint John Energy, Edmundston Energy and the Perth Andover Electric Light Commission, said even though N.B. Power is not directly building or owning the new station, it is causing it to be built for its own use.
That, he said, gives the EUB authority to review whether it is a financially responsible project.
"I do not know how N.B. Power can credibly argue that this is not a capital project of N.B. Power. They can repeat that they do not own the project but that is not the test [for a review]," said Burgoyne.
Proposed gas plant might not be held to same review standards as N.B. Power Also calling for a full review of the merits of the generating station were the New Brunswick Conservation Council and public intervener Alain Chiasson.
However, lawyers for both N.B. Power and ProEnergy argued New Brunswick legislation specific states that only capital projects of N.B. Power are subject to an EUB review.
"I don't see this in any way being a capital project of N.B. Power," said Len Hoyt, a lawyer acting for ProEnergy.
Stewart said the board recognized the importance of the issue and promised a decision "as soon as possible."
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Proposal for gas-fired power plant in Tantramar lacks transparency, says veteran journalist [video]
![Proposal for gas-fired power plant in Tantramar lacks transparency, says veteran journalist [video]](https://nbmediacoop.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Screenshot-2025-09-04-at-17.47.39.jpg)
In this wide-ranging interview, journalist Bruce Wark discusses NB Power’s plans for a controversial gas-fired plant that would be located about 20 kilometres north of Sackville.
Wark been writing frequently about issues related to the contentious plans on his website, the New Wark Times, ever since plans for a power plant located in the Tantramar area were revealed earlier this summer.
On Thursday, he joined the NB Media Co-op’s David Gordon Koch and Lisha Francis to discuss the latest developments, as hearings are underway at the Energy and Utilities Board to determine whether the regulator will conduct a full review of the project.
NB Power is arguing that it shouldn’t be considered a capital project — and therefore not subject to a review — because the facility will be owned by the Texas-based company ProEnergy.
“The panel hearing the arguments seem to be at least partially sympathetic to NB Power’s argument,” Wark said. The hearings continue Friday.
The veteran journalist also discussed his experiences reporting on the project, including a public Q&A session held by the company on Aug. 13 at a local civic centre, where members of the public were barred from using any recording devices. Wark was ejected from the civic centre by security after taking a photo.
That kind of restriction makes it hard for reporters to their job and reflects larger problems with transparency related to the project, he said. “There is not a lot of transparency here.”
He also discussed the question of Indigenous consent for the project. The company, ProEnergy, has claimed that the gas plant “will be owned by ProEnergy and the North Shore Mi’kmaq Tribal Council,” an organization governed by seven First Nation chiefs.
But Wark reported last month that the company has been unable to back up its claims that the project has Indigenous support, and that the chiefs hadn’t actually agreed to invest in the project.
Elsipogtog First Nation and Kopit Lodge – an organization that defends Indigenous rights – have also stated that they and the larger Mi’kmaq community weren’t consulted about this project, contradicting earlier claims by ProEnergy.
Other topics discussed include environmental concerns related to fracked gas in the context of the climate crisis, the complexity of reporting on issues marked by legalese and engineering jargon, and widespread local opposition which the project has generated so far.
David Gordon Koch is a journalist with the NB Media Co-op. Lisha Francis is a student at St. Thomas University and a member of Elsipogtog First Nation. This reporting has been made possible in part by the Government of Canada, administered by the Canadian Association of Community Television Users and Stations (CACTUS).
Tantramar Council urged to write letters opposing NB Power gas/diesel plant on the Isthmus
Members of the Stop the Tantramar Gas Plant group asked town council Monday to join their constituents in writing letters opposing the big gas/diesel generating plant that NB Power wants to have built near Centre Village on the Chignecto Isthmus.
“What we are asking from the Town of Tantramar specifically is to oppose the gas plant proposal,” Midgic resident Kristen LeBlanc told council.
She asked that council write letters to federal and provincial decision makers.
“Send them to Susan Holt, send them to Dominic LeBlanc, send them to fellow MPs,” she said, “so they’re eventually heard by the Liberal Party.”
LeBlanc said her group has been gathering signatures on a petition that Green Party leader Elizabeth May has agreed to present in Parliament, but unfortunately there’s been no response to their letters so far from Beauséjour MP Dominic LeBlanc or his federal colleagues.
She made her request after Midgic resident Juliette Bulmer showed a series of slides describing the effects of a 500 MW fossil-fuel plant in such an ecologically sensitive place.
Bulmer said up to seven million litres of water could be drawn from the underground aquifers every day — enough to fill two Olympic-sized swimming pools — with three million gallons of diesel fuel stored and used on the 500 acre site.
“There will be threats to our economy, our health and our way of life,” she added.
“Air pollution causing asthma, increased respiratory illness and lung disease especially in vulnerable populations,” she said before mentioning falling property and business values.
“A peaceful natural community replaced with toxic industry.”
Council reaction
“It does baffle me that in this day and age of climate change and forest fires, like we’ve had across Canada and the United States too, that we’re going to put jet engines into a forest and say it’s safe to be there,” Councillor Michael Tower said as about 25 spectators applauded.
“I do love the idea that we write to Dominic LeBlanc and I think we should also be writing to [Prime Minister] Mark Carney,” Tower added.
He referred to “false information” that NB Power and the American company PROENERGY were spreading, an apparent reference to their claim that Mi’kmaq chiefs had agreed to invest in the project as equity partners.
(The Chiefs issued a news release last month saying they had not agreed to invest and wanted a thorough, Indigenous-led rights impact assessment before they would consider consenting to a project on land that is subject to their claims for Aboriginal title.)
Councillors Bruce Phinney and Debbie Wiggins-Colwell also expressed support for a council letter-writing campaign.
“When I first heard about this, I’m like, yes, you know, this is extra income to our municipality and it will bring in tax dollars,” Councillor Josh Goguen said.
“But then, the more and more I’m reading about it, it just does not make sense,” he added, pointing to the “horrible” conditions of the roads around Midgic.
“This is definitely not needed in our area and I totally support you guys and I’ll sign whatever needs to get signed.”
Estabrooks keeps quiet
As Mayor Black called for last questions or comments, an audience member called out to ask for support from Deputy Mayor Matt Estabrooks who represents the municipal ward that includes Midgic, Centre Village and the property that would house the gas plant.
“He can speak if he wishes to, but that’s up to him,” Black said. “I’m not going to make somebody say something.”
Estabrooks stayed silent. After the meeting, he told Warktimes he did not wish to comment and he walked away when Juliette Bulmer approached him.
In e-mail exchanges obtained by Warktimes, Estabrooks wrote in reply to questions from area residents that the gas plant project is making its way through provincial and federal environmental impact assessments.
“I am confident in these processes,” he wrote. “They are the Experts.”
In another email, Estabrooks wrote: “I will share that I have received lots of feedback from residents regarding this project, the resounding majority being in support of it…that said, any support offered has been unanimously contingent on receiving a stamp of approval from the Provincial and Federal environmental assessment processes.”
Tower promises to act
Councillor Michael Tower said he wanted to move a motion asking council to write letters opposing the gas plant project, but he agreed to wait until its budget meeting on September 23 after Mayor Black suggested it would give staff time to review the matter.
EUB holds first day of hearings on NB Power’s proposed gas/diesel plant on the Isthmus
New Brunswick’s Energy and Utilities Board (EUB) held more than five hours of hearings on Sept. 3 on NB Power’s application to avoid the regulator’s financial scrutiny of its controversial proposal for a 500 MW gas/diesel generating plant on the Chignecto Isthmus.
Justin Urquhart, NB Power’s Vice President of Finance testified the plant should not be considered a capital project because it would be built and owned by the American company PROENERGY under a 25-year power-purchase, leasing agreement.
The provincial electricity act requires EUB approval of any NB Power capital project over $50 million, but the law does not clearly define what a capital project is.
Urquhart was asked why NB Power described its deal with PROENERGY as a partnership in a news release it issued on July 14.
“NB Power is not a formal partner that one might expect in a conventional business relationship of being an ownership interest in the joint venture or anything else,” he replied.
“I think partnership in this context was being pulled more from the NB Power new strategic plan, Energizing our Future, which talks about doing business differently and finding ways for broader partnerships,” he said.
Earlier, NB Power’s lawyer John Furey succeeded in persuading the three-member EUB panel to strike from the record parts of an affidavit filed by accounting expert Dustin Madsen who had been hired by the province’s energy watchdog known as the Public Intervener for the Energy Sector.
Although the panel agreed to certify Madsen as an accounting expert, it ruled he was not qualified to comment on provisions of the electricity act that require EUB scrutiny of capital projects.
The ruling means, for example, that the board will disregard part of Madsen’s affidavit that says the EUB should interpret the term “capital project” based on its grammatical or ordinary meaning and that it should consider accounting guidance and legal precedents from other Canadian jurisdictions.
Meantime, NB Power has hired accounting expert Tarah Schulz who filed her own affidavit and also testified today that under international financial reporting standards (IFRS), leasing agreements are fundamentally different from assets or investments that a business entity owns and controls.
Public Intervener
In a written brief filed with the EUB, Alain Chiasson, the Public Intervener argues that the gas/diesel generating plant should be considered a capital project, one that brings with it considerable financial risks that could affect power rates.
During today’s EUB hearing, he pointed to a $70 million electricity switching facility that would connect the new generating plant to the grid.
PROENERGY would build the switchyard, then sell it for $1 to NB Power because under provincial rules, only NB Power can transmit electricity in New Brunswick.
“We respectfully submit that the Switchback Assets alone represent a capital project with a total projected capital cost of $50 million or more which fulfills the requirements of section 107(1) of the Electricity Act,” Chiasson’s brief states, adding that therefore, under the law, it must be approved by the EUB.
The board will reconvene at 9:30 AM on Friday morning to hear oral arguments from various parties including NB Power, the Public Intervener for the Energy Sector and Moe Qureshi of the Conservation Council of New Brunswick.
To read the heavily redacted “tolling agreement” between NB Power and its PROENERGY partner, click here.
In this wide-ranging interview, journalist Bruce Wark discusses NB Power’s plans for a controversial gas-fired plant that would be located about 20 kilometres north of Sackville.
Wark been writing frequently about issues related to the contentious plans on his website, the New Wark Times, ever since plans for a power plant located in the Tantramar area were revealed earlier this summer.
On Thursday, he joined the NB Media Co-op’s David Gordon Koch and Lisha Francis to discuss the latest developments, as hearings are underway at the Energy and Utilities Board to determine whether the regulator will conduct a full review of the project.
NB Power is arguing that it shouldn’t be considered a capital project — and therefore not subject to a review — because the facility will be owned by the Texas-based company ProEnergy.
“The panel hearing the arguments seem to be at least partially sympathetic to NB Power’s argument,” Wark said. The hearings continue Friday.
The veteran journalist also discussed his experiences reporting on the project, including a public Q&A session held by the company on Aug. 13 at a local civic centre, where members of the public were barred from using any recording devices. Wark was ejected from the civic centre by security after taking a photo.
That kind of restriction makes it hard for reporters to their job and reflects larger problems with transparency related to the project, he said. “There is not a lot of transparency here.”
He also discussed the question of Indigenous consent for the project. The company, ProEnergy, has claimed that the gas plant “will be owned by ProEnergy and the North Shore Mi’kmaq Tribal Council,” an organization governed by seven First Nation chiefs.
But Wark reported last month that the company has been unable to back up its claims that the project has Indigenous support, and that the chiefs hadn’t actually agreed to invest in the project.
Elsipogtog First Nation and Kopit Lodge – an organization that defends Indigenous rights – have also stated that they and the larger Mi’kmaq community weren’t consulted about this project, contradicting earlier claims by ProEnergy.
Other topics discussed include environmental concerns related to fracked gas in the context of the climate crisis, the complexity of reporting on issues marked by legalese and engineering jargon, and widespread local opposition which the project has generated so far.
David Gordon Koch is a journalist with the NB Media Co-op. Lisha Francis is a student at St. Thomas University and a member of Elsipogtog First Nation. This reporting has been made possible in part by the Government of Canada, administered by the Canadian Association of Community Television Users and Stations (CACTUS).
N.B. Power argues Tantramar gas plant should be exempt from EUB review
Utility asks EUB to rule private development is outside of its oversight powers
In what has become largely a battle of accounting concepts, N.B. Power formally made its application Wednesday for a ruling that the planned construction of a natural gas generating station in Tantramar should be exempt from review by the New Brunswick Energy and Utilities Board (EUB).
The board is required by provincial legislation to hold hearings into any N.B. Power capital project that will exceed $50 million in expenditures, but the utility is asking for a ruling that the new generating station, scheduled for operation by 2028, not be covered by that provision.
Acknowledging N.B. Power will be the new facility's sole customer, the utility's vice president of finance Justin Urquhart nevertheless told the board the generating station will not be a "capital asset" of N.B. Power's because of a partnership with the private sector builder and operator ProEnergy.
Instead, the plant will be a "right of use asset" on N.B. Power's books that offers reduced risk to the utility and its customers, Urquhart said. N.B. Power also believes that frees the project from full EUB scrutiny.
A
privately owned natural gas generating station proposed for
southeastern New Brunswick is expected to have a similar design to this
facility in Rosharon, Texas, according to ProEnergy. The EUB is deciding
whether NB Power is involved enough in the project to require a full
regulatory review. (Submitted by ProEnergy)
"Unlike a traditional asset that N.B. Power would own, we would not take the construction risk," Urquhart said of the advantage of a third party owning the generator.
Urqhuart also said any long-term issues with the gas plant will be ProEnergy's problem, not N.B. Power's as has been the case with other generating stations like the Mactaquac Dam and Point Lepreau nuclear generating station.
"If a facility is no longer operating, of which N.B. Power has experienced in the assets it does own, in this situation that risk is with the proponent," Urquhart told the board.
N.B. Power says the 400 megawatt plant is required to meet a surging demand for electricity and to help manage a growing amount of wind energy on the provincial system that comes with large swings in output.
However, several groups are arguing the new plant is not independent enough from N.B. Power to escape full scrutiny.
Under questioning by public intervener Alain Chiasson, Urquhart acknowledged accounting rules will require N.B. Power to recognize $95 million in capital costs on its books as a result of the project related to new transmission infrastructure and upgrades that it requires.
That amount includes $70 million in transmission assets being built by ProEnergy for the generating station, that it then would transfer to N.B. Power's ownership. ProEnergy is to be paid for the transmission asset by the utility over time.
Justin Urquhart (right), NB Power's vice president of finance, answers
questions from EUB board members during a hearing Wednesday. (EUB Livestream)
Chiasson said that one component of the development alone meets the requirement for a full EUB review of the project.
"My point is the threshold is not an issue in this case. We are way past the $50 million, aren't we," Chiasson asked Urquhart.
"The right-of-use asset that will be on the books will be in excess of $50 million." acknowledged Urquhart.
Also pushing for a full review of the generating station by the EUB are New Brunswick's three municipal utilities and a number of individuals and environmental groups.
Final arguments by parties are scheduled in front of the EUB on Friday morning.
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Yes, alternatives exist to more fossil gas in New Brunswick
Commentary
NB Power claims the province needs a new fossil (‘natural’) gas-fired power plant. If built, the new power plant would be the largest new energy generator on the grid in decades. It would emit new greenhouse gasses – just when we desperately need to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Much better alternatives do exist.
In July an American company, ProEnergy Holdings, announced its intention to build a 500-megawatt (MW) gas-fired power plant in Centre Village, north of Sackville. NB Power invited the company into the province and intends to purchase power from the proposed plant.
Building a new fossil fuel power plant runs directly contrary to the need to reduce carbon emissions in the face of a growing climate crisis. Alternative approaches – battery energy storage systems (BESS) and demand-side flexibility (DSF) – are effective, do not emit GHGs or toxic emissions and cost less.
NB Power claims this gas-fired power plant will prevent grid failures, but these power plants are far from perfect. Just ask the people who suffered during recent gas-fired power plants failures: deaths in Texas in February 2021, power shortage in Alberta in January 2024 and a massive outage in Spain in April 2025.
NB Power claims its grid needs a new 400 MW power supply to (1) meet the peak power demands of a growing population, (2) integrate solar and wind power, and (3) ensure grid reliability. All three can be met using modern storage and demand-side flexibility techniques.
Better alternatives to fossil gas
Power demand peaks in New Brunswick, occuring in the coldest winter mornings, are normal and predictable. The peaks routinely go above 2,500 MW and can exceed 3,000 MW.
Battery storage provides an economical way to save surplus energy for those peaks. Electric systems operators in many jurisdictions charge their storage systems with cheap wind and solar energy that is then discharged as needed to meet the peak demand.
Demand-side flexibility, another GHG emissions-free way to manage peaks and directly reduce costs for customers, comes in many forms such as time-of-day rates. The most convenient is an automatic service, that, when authorized by the customer, makes small adjustments in the timing of high-power appliances such as electric vehicle chargers and hot water heaters. In most cases the only thing the customer notices is the credit on their power bill received for allowing these timing tweaks.
Such small adjustments, unnoticeable at the household level, can provide huge system benefits. All the hot water heaters in New Brunswick turned on at the same time would draw almost 1,000 MW of power. An automated service could stagger the power needs of individual heaters to ensure total demand is lower during peak times while keeping water hot.
An automated service could also shift the timing of EV charging to reduce power demand peaks and still have EVs charged each morning. Based on the estimated 3,500 EVs in New Brunswick, peak demand could be lowered by as much as 35 MW simply by adjusting when they charge. Those potential savings will grow with the increase in EVs each year. When 10 per cent of the vehicles in New Brunswick are EVs then the savings could be over 500 MW! Also, electric vehicles could go a step further by using vehicle-to-grid (V2G) to provide power back to the system during a demand peak. V2G helps EV owners pay for their cars while reducing the cost of electricity for everyone.
Integrating storage with wind and solar energy
Storage is highly effective at integrating wind and solar since it can instantly switch from producing power to saving energy. By December 2024, 160,000 MW of battery storage was installed globally, with installations projected to continue to grow rapidly. Battery storage installations close to home include the 250 MW Oneida Energy Storage project in Ontario, 300 MW by the end of 2025 in Maine and a 6 MW Saint John Energy battery storage system used to integrate the Burchill windfarm. Ontario plans to have almost 3,000 MW of battery storage installed by 2030.
Grids are reliable with renewables and storage
A huge benefit of battery storage is its ability to automatically respond within milliseconds to grid needs such as frequency regulation and voltage support. In Australia, solar and battery storage have been called the “new baseload,” cheap 100 per cent available power. In California battery storage was the largest provider of frequency regulation services in 2024.
Grid reliability is always a concern during major storms. A four-day storm could potentially cause the outage or disconnection of a major power plant. During a storm decentralized windfarms would continue produce power, likely so much that some would be stored for later use.
Grids are better decentralized
When power production is focused on a few large power plants a single plant failure or disconnection from the grid could cause a widespread power outage during a major storm. A decentralized grid – with smaller power producers and storage systems spread across a region or the whole province – can provide more reliability than having a few large power plants. It is much easier to temporarily compensate for the failure of a 7 MW wind turbine than the loss of a 500 MW power plant.
Another bonus of a decentralized grid is that more communities can get involved in developing these projects and experience the employment and financial benefits these installations can bring.
Renewable builds cost less than new fossil gas plants
What is the most cost-effective way to add more electricity to meet the needs of our growing population? According to NB Power’s own 2023 Integrated Resource Plan, electricity from the proposed gas-fired turbine would cost $418 per megawatt hour (MWh). Electricity from windfarms and solar arrays would only cost $47/MWh and $80/MWh respectively. Windfarms and solar arrays are the hands-down winners when it comes to cost, even after factoring in energy storage costs.
Manitoba Hydro recently proposed building a $1.4 billion 500 MW gas-fired power plant similar to the Centre Village proposal. That cost does not include fuel and staffing the plant; neither is required for a battery storage system.
According to BloombergNEF a 6-hour 400 MW battery storage system would cost $390 million. A 6-hour 400MW battery storage system could provide any level of power from 0 to 400 MW. The less power needed the longer the charge would last. For example, it could produce 100 MW of power for 24 hours.
A 2024 report by the Clean Energy Alliance using the state of Maine as a case study concluded that a battery storage option would be as effective at handling peaks as gas-fired power and cost less.
The cost of demand-side flexibility services is generally quite low because the electronic control devices are simple and inexpensive and no energy needs to be created or stored. For example, a wireless hot water heater control costs about $150.
Use a GHG emissions-free solution
Battery storage and demand-side flexibility operate without GHGs or toxic emissions and would effectively and economically meet NB Power’s needs. Tethering New Brunswickers to an expensive fossil-fuel power source for 25 years just doesn’t make sense given these available alternatives.
New Brunswick does not need another gas-fired power plant. Together battery storage and demand-side flexibility can provide an effective, less costly and emissions-free solution for New Brunswick’s electricity grid. Build wind, solar and storage, not emissions.
Tom McLean is a member of the Core Group of the Coalition of Responsible Energy Development in New Brunswick (crednb.ca).
Tantramar residents near proposed natural gas plant share health concerns
N. B. Power hopes gas plant will be up and running in 2028
Tantramar residents say the wildfires and extreme heat this week only heightened their concerns about how a natural gas plant N.B. Power wants to build in the area would affect their health.
Residents and others shared their concerns at an open house about the gas plant, held in Sackville by ProEnergy, the Missouri-based company that would build the plant.
N.B. Power has chosen a 20-hectare site in Centre Village, along Route 940, for the proposed plant, which would be built by ProEnergy and is projected to be up and running in 2028.
Jones said she is the site's nearest neighbour and will be the "first person to feel the effects of water runoff, of air pollution, noise pollution, light pollution."
"We need to get away from fossil fuels, look at renewable energy and start looking to the future."
Jones has a private well and worries it will be affected by the new plant.
Tantramar residents say gas plant would take N.B. in wrong direction "If I don't have water and I decide that I'm going to give up my home of 33 years, who's going to buy it?" Jones said.
Hayley MacLean, who lives eight kilometres south of the site, voiced similar concerns.
"Right now we have great water, and we're worried about contamination of our water, of our wells," she said.
MacLean said she is disappointed she wasn't consulted by N.B. Power or ProEnergy before the plant was announced.
"It makes us feel … like our input doesn't matter," she said. "We're still human, we still have concerns, and we still have a right to have a safe place to live."
Matthew Gorman, a senior tech specialist at N.B. Power, said he and a representative from ProEnergy visited about 15 residences near the site a month ago when it was announced.
MacLean's biggest concerns are about the health of residents and the environment.
The 2025 environmental impact assessment of the project said effects on the quality and quantity of groundwater and surface water are expected. But the assessment doesn't predict the project will have any impact on the 44 private wells within 10 kilometres of the project site.
"Construction activities may require excavations, which could result in a localized lowering of the water table," according to the assessment, which warns that storm water runoff could lead to "elevated turbidity and suspended solids" in the runoff.
"If subsurface disturbance is extensive, the increased turbidity and suspended solids may also reach the groundwater system via groundwater recharge."
The environmental assessment also points to the possibility that "liquid effluents" will be discharged from the project into a nearby wetland or ditch along Route 940, which "could potentially result in changes to groundwater quality."
But the exact changes in water quality and quantity are yet to be tested.
Gorman said N.B. Power is waiting for a permit that would allow them to test how much the plant would affect water quality and quantity in the site area.
Depending on the results, Gorman said, the location of the site could be reconsidered.
Before a decision is made, the agency will also review public comments to prepare a summary of issues.
Residents say fossil fuel emissions must be cut
Aside from her drinking water, MacLean and her neighbours are also worried about carbon dioxide emissions.
"The plant is going to be producing some sort of emissions that are not going to be, you know, great for us to be breathing," she said.
Peter Jongeneelen, co-chair of ACORN, a tenant advocacy group for people with low to moderate incomes, worries the gas plant will worsen air quality.
"Well the carbon emissions — the CO2 emissions — if I can barely breathe in extreme heat and wildfire smoke … what is this adding to it?" he said.
Sylvain Comeau, a climate activist, said he's concerned about the plant, especially if forest fires are burning in New Brunswick, which is the case now.
"Especially with the forest fires happening all over New Brunswick, I wanted to come here and advocate for greener alternatives," Comeau said.
"No matter what, building a brand new power plant and having it run anytime of the year will still cause greenhouse gases to escape into the atmosphere and heat our climate," he said.
Instead of a fossil fuel burning plant, Comeau said, there are other energy solutions, including solar, wind, geothermal, hydro and battery.
"I'm just trying to hammer it home that we don't need new fossil fuel plants in New Brunswick," Comeau said.
But Gorman said renewable energy is not always reliable.
"If the wind's not blowing, if the sun is not shining, the energy isn't available," he said. "This is not a base load generator plant. It's a backup facility to support the resiliency of the grid that is going to have renewables embedded into it as we navigate towards net zero."
At Wednesday night's meeting, a representative from Stantec, the company that did the environmental impact assessment, said potential health impacts that could be caused by the plant, were not part of the assessment.
The company agreed to reconsider this approach if there is enough community interest.
No recording was permitted at the meeting and representatives from ProEnergy refused to do a recorded interview.
No Mi'kmaw ownership in gas plant yet, despite company claims
Indigenous investment stake in project will depend on outcome of rights-impact assessment, group says
Mi'kmaw communities have not made a financial investment in a proposed natural gas plant and may never own a stake in the project, despite company claims to the contrary.
ProEnergy, the U.S. company hired by N.B. Power to build the plant in Tantramar, has promoted an Indigenous ownership stake in the project, a claim repeated by Premier Susan Holt.
"North Shore Mi'kmaq Tribal Council is a minority equity holder in the project," Landon Tessner, ProEnergy's vice-president commercial, said during a public meeting in July organized by the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada.
The company's registration document for its environmental impact assessment also uses the present tense, saying the tribal council "is a minor equity partner" in the project.
But so far that is only an option, and whether it ever becomes reality hinges on the outcome of a Mi'kmaq-led review of how the project affects their rights.
"The Mi'gmaq Chiefs have not made any decision regarding investing in this project," said a statement from Mi'gmawe'l Tplu'taqnn Inc., which represents the nine Mi'kmaw First Nations in New Brunswick.
ProEnergy,
the U.S. company hired by N.B. Power to build the plant in Tantramar,
has promoted an Indigenous ownership stake in the project, a claim
repeated by Premier Susan Holt. (Frédéric Cammarano/Radio-Canada)
The statement said the proposed site of the gas plant is in "an area of high cultural, ecological and strategic importance" to the Mi'kmaq Nation.
While it acknowledges that the plant would strengthen the provincial power grid and allow more renewable generation, Mi'gmawe'l Tplu'taqnn Inc., also known as MTI, says the project must go through a rights impact assessment it will lead.
"If concerns about impacts are not meaningfully addressed, then the project does not get Mi'gmaq consent," Raven Boyer, the organization's communications co-ordinator, said in an email.
She said the North Shore Mi'kmaq Tribal Council, an agency that handles economic development for seven of the First Nations, would "presumably" only exercise its option to invest if the bands consent.
The option allows Mi'kmaw ownership of up to one-third of the project.
Despite company claim, Mik’maq haven’t invested in gas plant yet Tristan Jackson, the CEO of Nikutik LP, an investment fund created by the tribal council, did not respond to a CBC request for an interview.
The lack of a current council equity stake was first reported by the New Wark Times, an independent news site in the Tantramar area.
The notion of an Indigenous partnership in the project has been a key selling point for the gas plant, which has sparked controversy and opposition in the area.
Premier Susan Holt has also cited it when answering criticism that N.B. Power has hired an American company to build the plant in the midst of a trade dispute with the U.S.
"One thing we are encouraged with this project is it will be co-owned by a group of different First Nations, a group of different New Brunswick First Nations that have an ownership stake in this project," Holt said on CBC's Information Morning in the Summer on Aug. 1.
One Mi'kmaw band, however, has declared its "unequivocal opposition" to the project.
Elsipogtog First Nation warned in a statement in July that the project "risks igniting widespread Indigenous resistance" and demanded that it be cancelled.
"If this project continues to move forward, know that it will be met with legal and direct action," the statement said. "Our Nation is prepared to defend our land, our rights and our future."
Elsipogtog is one of two Mi'kmaw First Nations that are not part of the North Shore Mi'kmaq Tribal Council. It is part of MTI but has its own consultation body, Kopit Lodge.
In July, ProEnergy's news release about the gas plant quoted the tribal council general manager, Jim Ward, calling the Missouri-based energy company "a great partner."
Chief Terry Richardson of Pabineau First Nation, who supports the gas plant proposal, said there was "a misunderstanding on who was going to negotiate this."
He said he would have advised ProEnergy to contact the Fort Folly First Nation, the closest reserve to the project site, first for guidance on which organization to deal with.
"I think somebody within North Shore — you know, communication lines — they felt that they were doing that on behalf of Fort Folly, whereas Fort Folly wasn't really totally aware," he said.
Chief
Terry Richardson of Pabineau First Nation, who supports the gas plant
proposal, said there was 'a misunderstanding on who was going to
negotiate this.' (Jacques Poitras/CBC)
"The chiefs are members of the board [of the tribal council], so it's important that the chiefs understand what's going on, and I think there was just a step left out here where it was moving quickly, and it should have went, probably, to the board first."
He said he believed MTI's statement reflected concerns from Fort Folly Chief Rebecca Knockwood. Boyer said Knockwood was not available for an interview.
In emails obtained by CBC News, Jackson told Barry Rothfuss of the Atlantic Wildlife Institute, which is near the site, that the North Shore Mi'kmaq Tribal Council's science and environmental organization, Anqotum Resource Management, did a "high-level, desktop review" of ProEnergy's plan.
The council, Nikutik and Anqotum "are not consultative bodies," Jackson said in an email. "Our roles are only to negotiate business deals and do technical work."
He also said there had been monthly meetings between N.B. Power and MTI about the project, something the utility itself said at the public meeting in July.
"We've provided monthly updates to each of these folks on the need for the project, where it was, what was being evaluated, the opportunity to accompany and support the monitoring activities," said Matt Gorman, an N.B. Power environment impact specialist.
Elsipogtog said in its statement in July that it was "categorically false" that it had been consulted.
Richardson said he considers the gas plant a necessity that will provide baseload power backup for N.B. Power's expanded renewables generation.
The utility says this will allow for a net reduction of 250,000 tonnes in greenhouse gas emissions overall.
The Pabineau chief called the confusing statements over Mi'kmaw ownership "a growing pain in how we go through that consultation process" that should not jeopardize the project.
"I think it's just ironing out how we're going to do this," he said.
"If we're looking at nation-building projects, it's important that we have that down, how we're doing this consultation, how we're moving forward, so we don't end up with stumbling blocks that cost money and cause bad feelings."
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With files from Oliver Pearson and Hope Edmond
Tantramar residents near proposed natural gas plant share health concerns
N. B. Power hopes gas plant will be up and running in 2028
Tantramar residents say the wildfires and extreme heat this week only heightened their concerns about how a natural gas plant N.B. Power wants to build in the area would affect their health.
Residents and others shared their concerns at an open house about the gas plant, held in Sackville by ProEnergy, the Missouri-based company that would build the plant.
N.B. Power has chosen a 20-hectare site in Centre Village, along Route 940, for the proposed plant, which would be built by ProEnergy and is projected to be up and running in 2028.
Terry Jones, who lives just 1.4 kilometres from the site, was one of about 170 people at the open house, where ProEnergy invited people to ask questions and voice concerns.
This week, Missouri-based ProEnergy hosted two open houses on the natural gas plant it would build for N.B. Power in Tantramar. (Hope Edmond/CBC News)
Jones said she is the site's nearest neighbour and will be the "first person to feel the effects of water runoff, of air pollution, noise pollution, light pollution."
"We need to get away from fossil fuels, look at renewable energy and start looking to the future."
Jones has a private well and worries it will be affected by the new plant.
Tantramar residents say gas plant would take N.B. in wrong direction "If I don't have water and I decide that I'm going to give up my home of 33 years, who's going to buy it?" Jones said.
Hayley MacLean, who lives eight kilometres south of the site, voiced similar concerns.
"Right now we have great water, and we're worried about contamination of our water, of our wells," she said.
MacLean said she is disappointed she wasn't consulted by N.B. Power or ProEnergy before the plant was announced.
"It makes us feel … like our input doesn't matter," she said. "We're still human, we still have concerns, and we still have a right to have a safe place to live."
ProEnergy,
the Missouri-based company that would build the gas plant, invited
residents residents to share their concerns about it. (Radio-Canada)
Matthew Gorman, a senior tech specialist at N.B. Power, said he and a representative from ProEnergy visited about 15 residences near the site a month ago when it was announced.
"Half of the folks were home. Those that weren't home, we left a letter," he said, describing the interactions with those who were home as "positive."
MacLean's biggest concerns are about the health of residents and the environment.
The 2025 environmental impact assessment of the project said effects on the quality and quantity of groundwater and surface water are expected. But the assessment doesn't predict the project will have any impact on the 44 private wells within 10 kilometres of the project site.
"Construction activities may require excavations, which could result in a localized lowering of the water table," according to the assessment, which warns that storm water runoff could lead to "elevated turbidity and suspended solids" in the runoff.
"If subsurface disturbance is extensive, the increased turbidity and suspended solids may also reach the groundwater system via groundwater recharge."
The environmental assessment also points to the possibility that "liquid effluents" will be discharged from the project into a nearby wetland or ditch along Route 940, which "could potentially result in changes to groundwater quality."
But the exact changes in water quality and quantity are yet to be tested.
Gorman said N.B. Power is waiting for a permit that would allow them to test how much the plant would affect water quality and quantity in the site area.
Depending on the results, Gorman said, the location of the site could be reconsidered.
The project is still under review by the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada, an agency that reviews environmental impact assessments.
Before a decision is made, the agency will also review public comments to prepare a summary of issues.
Residents say fossil fuel emissions must be cut
Aside from her drinking water, MacLean and her neighbours are also worried about carbon dioxide emissions.
"The plant is going to be producing some sort of emissions that are not going to be, you know, great for us to be breathing," she said.
Peter Jongeneelen, co-chair of ACORN, a tenant advocacy group for people with low to moderate incomes, worries the gas plant will worsen air quality.
"Well the carbon emissions — the CO2 emissions — if I can barely breathe in extreme heat and wildfire smoke … what is this adding to it?" he said.
Sylvain Comeau, a climate activist, said he's concerned about the plant, especially if forest fires are burning in New Brunswick, which is the case now.
"Especially with the forest fires happening all over New Brunswick, I wanted to come here and advocate for greener alternatives," Comeau said.
"No matter what, building a brand new power plant and having it run anytime of the year will still cause greenhouse gases to escape into the atmosphere and heat our climate," he said.
According to N.B. Power and ProEnergy, the plant is expected to produce 100,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas per year. In a worst case scenario, it would produce 900,000 tonnes.
Instead of a fossil fuel burning plant, Comeau said, there are other energy solutions, including solar, wind, geothermal, hydro and battery.
"I'm just trying to hammer it home that we don't need new fossil fuel plants in New Brunswick," Comeau said.
But Gorman said renewable energy is not always reliable.
"If the wind's not blowing, if the sun is not shining, the energy isn't available," he said. "This is not a base load generator plant. It's a backup facility to support the resiliency of the grid that is going to have renewables embedded into it as we navigate towards net zero."
At Wednesday night's meeting, a representative from Stantec, the company that did the environmental impact assessment, said potential health impacts that could be caused by the plant, were not part of the assessment.
The company agreed to reconsider this approach if there is enough community interest.
No recording was permitted at the meeting and representatives from ProEnergy refused to do a recorded interview.
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Opponents of new gas plant accuse N.B. Power of trying to evade regulatory scrutiny
N.B. Power hopes the new generating plant will be up and running in 2028
Advocates are raising concerns that N.B. Power is looking to shortcut the regulatory process and avoid public scrutiny of its proposed 400-megawatt gas plant.
"It's an attempt to evade the regulatory process and that's unacceptable," said Green Leader David Coon.
N.B. Power is required to get approval from the Energy and Utilities Board for capital projects costing more than $50 million, but are arguing that a $70-million transmission facility required for a new natural gas generating facility in the province's southeast should be excepted from that scrutiny. Normally, that would trigger a review of the entire project.
Coon said it's clear the utility doesn't believe the independent EUB would see the economic argument for it.
"It says to me they don't have much faith in the Energy and Utilities Board deciding that these expenditures would be in the economic interests of New Brunswickers given the alternatives," he said.
Green Party Leader David Coon says the move betrays N.B. Power's fear of a full-scale hearing on the project. (Silas Brown/CBC)
"The alternatives are there. I mean, places from the city of Saint John to the state of Vermont are using large battery storage systems on the scale of hundreds of megawatts in the case of Vermont to provide peak power."
N.B. Power's application makes the case that the structure of the deal to build and operate the plant and necessary infrastructure doesn't count as a traditional capital investment.
The new plant will be owned and operated by ProEnergy, which will sell the power generated back to N.B. Power. Because the plant is being built by and will be wholly owned by ProEnergy, the project doesn't require hearings and board approval.
Opponents of new gas plant say N.B. Power is trying to evade public scrutinyHowever, the project also includes a $70-million switchyard that ProEnergy has agreed to build. By law, only N.B. Power can own transmission assets in the province, so once completed, it will be sold to the utility for a dollar.
N.B. Power argues that since they aren't building it, the transfer shouldn't count as a capital project and should therefore be shielded from board review and the public hearings that come with it — even though it will show up as a $70-million asset in its capital structure, with the depreciation and liabilities that come with it.
The preliminary site layout shows where the plant's 10 turbines will be located on Route 940 in Tantramar. (ProEnergy)
A spokesperson for N.B. Power said in a statement that the application is intended to get the EUB's opinion on how to treat these types of agreements.
"This structure differs from N.B. Power building and operating a long-term asset, where we would assume all operational risks, ultimately borne by the ratepayer. This is a new type of agreement for NB Power, and we felt it was important to seek the NBEUB's opinion," Elizabeth Fraser said in an email.
Fraser added that while a full EUB review would take longer, they believe the plant could still be ready by 2028.
N.B. Power said previously that the plant is necessary to address the growing population and demand for energy in the province and to provide a backup to intermittent renewable power. The utility is also looking to add hundreds of megawatts of wind energy to its generation mix in coming years and says the plant will be a crucial part of ensuring it has the energy it needs when demand dictates.
According to environmental assessment filings, work to prepare the site is intended to start as early as next year, with the plant coming online in 2028. ProEnergy's lead for the project previously told CBC that it's expected the project could result in a 250,000-tonne reduction in N.B. Power's greenhouse gas emissions as the plant would displace more polluting sources of power.
Reduction claims need to be tested
Moe Qureshi, the director of climate change research and policy at the Conservation Council of New Brunswick, said those claims need to be tested in the EUB's public hearing process to determine if the plant, or the deal, is in the best interest of New Brunswickers.
"The EUB is the way to review that information to check if this is really the best choice for New Brunswick and, without that oversight, I think we're going to get into more problems rather than less," he said.
"What if this costs us more down the road than what we think now? And I think if the ratepayers have to pay for this, they have a right to see what's going on."
The EUB filing also provides more details about how ProEnergy will be paid for the facility. N.B. Power will pay for the fuel used to power the plant and purchase the power generated. But they will also make monthly "capacity payments" based on how much power the utility purchased versus what the facility could produce.
Brotman
Generating Station in Rosharon, Texas, has similar components and
layout as the proposed project that ProEnergy will build in Tantramar. (ProEnergy)
Fraser said payments will be based on a "'pay for performance' model, meaning we are only subject to payments when the facility meets a high level of availability."
N.B. Power's EUB filing states they expect the capacity payments will eclipse $50 million over the 25-year lifespan of the agreement.
A pre-hearing conference is scheduled for Aug. 12, with hearing dates set for the beginning of September.
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Minimal public interest in comprehensive N.B. Power review has 'disappointed' so far
Panel studying what to do about debt-laden utility underwhelmed by public interest in its work
Public interest in a review of N.B. Power ordered by the New Brunswick government has been underwhelming so far, according to a key member of the independent group running the initiative.
Duncan Hawthorne is a former president of Bruce Power in Ontario and at a public meeting in Saint John on Thursday said participation in the group's online attempts to reach the public has been weak.
"I have been disappointed at the number of people that have joined our webinars because you don't even have to leave your own home to do that," Hawthorne said.
"I have run them in other places and there are hundreds of people. We've done them here, and there aren't so many people calling in."
The review has now moved to the in-person phase of its consultations, and Hawthorne said he wants to see more interest from people, given the significant issues that are being weighed, including whether N.B. Power should remain as a publicly owned utility.
"We really need people to be more engaged," he said.
Public meetings being conducted by the three-person independent panel began Wednesday in Moncton and move next to Saint Andrews and Fredericton. In October, they will head to a variety of communities in northern New Brunswick.
The group was put together by the Holt government in April and given one year to study N.B. Power, consult with the public and recommend a course of action for the debt-laden Crown corporation.
The
independent panel reviewing what to do about N.B. Power has begun
in-person public hearings. They started Wednesday in Moncton and will
conclude for the week in Fredericton on Friday. More hearings are
scheduled for October. (Robert Jones/CBC)
In addition to Hawthorne, the review panel includes Anne Bertrand, the former New Brunswick privacy commissioner and N.B. Power board member, and Michael Bernstein, a utility financial expert.
In Saint John, 60 chairs were set up for Thursday's midday public meeting, but only two dozen people showed and only a smattering of those were not connected in some way to the review, to the provincial government or to the electricity industry.
One self-described "Joe Citizen" who did attend was Saint John resident Richard Folkins. He told the panel he viewed talk of further rate increases by N.B. Power "frightening" and blamed much of that on the utility's problems in its operation of the Point Lepreau nuclear generating station, which he called "a disaster."
Saint
John resident Richard Folkins told the panel in the city on Thursday
that future rate increases being projected by N.B. Power are
'frightening.' (Roger Cosman/CBC)
"It was a rude awakening to N.B. Power, which shocks me," Folkins said. "I don't know how they didn't see this tidal wave coming."
Hawthorne welcomed Folkins comments and called Lepreau "the poorest performing nuclear plant in North America" that has been causing the utility significant financial problems.
"You haven't said anything that we disagree with," he told Folkins. "Not a thing, not a word came out of your mouth that I disagree with."
Randy McKnight, mayor of Valley Waters, said rural residents are struggling with their power bills. (Roger Cosman/CBC)
Randy McKnight, the mayor of the new municipality of Valley Waters, also attended the Saint John session. He told the panel rural residents are struggling with residential prices for electricity increasing by 30 per cent over the last three years.
In an interview, he said people are not widely participating in the review because they are cynical about government consultations. He hopes that will change.
"There's a lack of belief that this will make any positive, lasting change," McKnight said. "As a community we will put this out through our Facebook page and our web page promoting — fill out the surveys, offer your feedback. We want to encourage every resident to give feedback to N.B. Power."
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Review will look at N.B. Power's 'capacity to execute' on major projects
Panel to consider N.B. Power projects but says natural gas plant proposed in Tantramar is not in scope
A review into New Brunswick Power operations will evaluate whether the utility has the capacity to deliver on its projects — but won't wade into the debate about a proposed Tantramar gas plant.
The comments were made in an online public meeting Wednesday evening, part of the larger consultation process for the ongoing review into N.B. Power's operations.
The three-member panel faced several questions about N.B. Power's proposed natural gas plant, to be built by Missouri-based ProEnergy, from several of the nearly 60 people who joined the meeting.
That comes after Tantramar residents voiced concerns about the potential environmental impacts of the project at an open house last week.
But Duncan Hawthorne, a former CEO at Ontario's Bruce Power, said that project falls outside the scope of the review.
The preliminary site layout shows where the plant's 10 turbines would be located on Route 940 in Tantramar. (ProEnergy)
"We cannot interfere with ongoing decisions that N.B. Power are making," Hawthorne said. "Obviously, although we have an interest in what they're doing, we're not able to ask them to stop doing what needs to be done."
The review will look at N.B. Power projects, he added, and how those might impact the bottom line.
"I think it's fair to say that one of the areas we're looking at is N.B. Power's capacity to execute those projects, either because of the scale of them or because of the skill set that those projects require," he said.
He noted the group will only consider projects included in N.B. Power's Integrated Resource Plan — an outline of what energy sources the utility will use as it works to achieve net zero.
"There are a lot of big complex projects coming up for N.B. Power, like Mactaquac or Belledune, or Coleson Cove," he said.
N.B. Power has a multi-billion dollar refurbishment planned for the
Mactaquac hydroelectric dam, a key asset for the utility. (Michael
Heenan/CBC)
"Big projects generally get in trouble because they're not planned properly or they don't have the right skill set. So that is an area we will certainly be looking at."
The review was initiated by Premier Susan Holt this year after public outcry about high power bills last winter.
N.B. Power has maintained the cause was high consumption during the colder months, a finding backed by an independent audit of the utility's billing system.
But rates have been on the rise as the utility tries to meet its legislated debt reduction targets, while also planning a multi-billion dollar refurbishment of the Mactaquac hydroelectric dam.
The panel held an earlier online question and answer session in June, but panellist Anne Bertrand said the group is set to visit several locations in person during September.
So far that includes appearances in Moncton on Sept. 10 at 6 p.m. AT in the Université de Moncton's Richelieu Room, Saint John on Sept. 11 at 11 a.m. at the TSA Curling Club, St. Andrews at the W. C. O'Neill Arena Complex on Sept. 11 at 5 p.m., and at Fredericton's Hugh John Flemming Forestry Centre on Sept. 12 at 11 a.m.
Spokesperson Alycia Bartlett said during the session that more dates for in-person consultations would be added at a later time.
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N.B. Power review panel defends independence in 1st public info session
Review panel appointed last month
A three-person panel appointed last month to review New Brunswick Power's operations was quick to assure the public on Wednesday that the panel can be counted on for an unbiased perspective.
"It's important that everyone remember that we're truly independent, in that we do not represent that government and we do not represent the public, so we're quite unfettered," said Anne Bertrand, one of the three appointed to oversee the review.
"It really allows us to have a solid, insightful review, free to say what we want."
Bertrand is an ex-N.B. Power board member and provincial privacy and information officer. Micheal Bernstein, a past CEO and investment fund manager in the energy sector, and former Bruce Power CEO Duncan Hawthorne, are the other two members of the review panel.
The trio was announced almost exactly a month ago and faced New Brunswickers for the first time Wednesday, taking written questions over an hour-long virtual meeting.
One of those questions asked directly about the panel's independence and remuneration. Bertrand confirmed all three members are being paid by the provincial government, but likened their situation to that of a judge.
N.B. Power review panel touts independence in first public meeting"Judges are paid by provincial governments … and they are independent, they abide by a code of ethical conduct," Bertrand said.
"This is the same for all three of us."
Wednesday was the first of several planned virtual meetings to allow the panel to hear concerns from people in the province. Bertrand said an engagement survey will be released over the summer and that there will be in person meetings in the fall.
The Mactaquac Dam is awaiting a multi-billion dollar refurbishment. (Michael Heenan/CBC)
Recommendations are expected by the end of March.
Premier Susan Holt launched the review following controversy over a spike in power bills over the winter. N.B. Power has maintained that the primary reason for the increase in bills is higher consumption related to weather, a claim backed up by an independent audit of the utility's billing system.
Rates have also risen steadily in recent years as N.B. Power tries to meet legislated debt reduction targets ahead of a multi-billion dollar refurbishment of the Mactaquac hydroelectric dam, which remains one of the province's most important generating assets.
Hawthorne was quick to warn the 95-odd people who participated in the first session not to expect a quick fix for the utility.
"This is about making N.B. Power fit for the future, and it has a challenging future, make no mistake," he said.
"It faces a challenge, not unlike many of the neighbouring jurisdictions, where assets that have served them well for many years are coming to end-of-life and have to be replaced. Some assets like Lepreau are underperforming and need to be challenged to do better."
N.B. Power was nearly sold to Hydro Quebec a decade and a half ago, but that deal crumbled in the face of overwhelming public backlash. Bertrand said it's important not to look backwards, but Bernstein said that the three of them will examine all possible avenues for the future of the utility.
"That could involve private sector partnerships, that could involve mergers, it could involve working with other players to the benefit of New Brunswickers," Bernstein said.
"We've been given broad latitude to look at whatever options we think can be to the benefit of New Brunswickers."
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Public Meetings – Provincial Environmental Impact Assessment
As part of the provincial Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process regarding the proposed fossil gas plant in Tantramar, two open houses are being organized to provide residents with an opportunity to learn more, ask questions, and offer input. This notice is for informational purposes only; the meetings are publicly hosted by PROENERGY .
Public Meeting Details
-
Tuesday, August 12, 2025 | 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
The Music Barn, 18 Station Road, Sackville -
Wednesday, August 13, 2025 | 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Tantramar Veterans Memorial Civic Centre, 182 Main Street, Sackville
Residents are invited to attend either session to engage with the assessment process and, if they wish, submit comments or concerns.
About the Environmental Impact Assessment Process
The New Brunswick EIA process ensures that potential environmental impacts are identified and evaluated early in the planning stage. For projects of this scale—such as the Centre Village generating facility proposed by NB Power and operated by PROENERGY—the EIA may follow a comprehensive review path, offering extended public input opportunities.
Projects Under Comprehensive Review
Opportunities for Public and First Nations Involvement during a Comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
Determination Review
Under New Brunswick’s Environmental Impact Assessment Regulation,
reviews of proposed projects start when the proponent submits a
registration document. Most conclude a few months later when the
Minister issues a Certificate of Determination (CoD) allowing the
project to proceed subject to conditions. This process is referred to
as a determination review. It involves a Technical Review Committee
(TRC) of subject matter experts from the provincial, federal and local
governments. They ask questions and provide comments to the proponent
and recommend conditions for inclusion in the CoD. During the review,
the proponent engages with the public and First Nations and submits the
results to the EIA Branch of the Department of Environment and Local
Government (DELG).
Comprehensive Review
Less often, some projects follow a different review path. If the
Minister suspects project impacts may be significant or decides that
more study is needed to further assess these impacts, then proponents
must follow a comprehensive EIA review process. Comprehensive EIAs offer
added opportunities for members of the public and First Nations to give
their input.
Opportunities for Public and First Nations Involvement
The numbers below illustrate the five opportunities for public and First Nations involvement during a Comprehensive EIA.
First Nations may choose to provide input through both the EIA and the Duty to Consult process, if applicable.
Duty to Consult with First Nations
The Importance of Consultation with First Nations
The Duty to Consult Process
The Duty to Consult process was established by Canadian courts upon interpretation of the recognition of Aboriginal rights in the Canadian Constitution. Section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982 states that, "the existing aboriginal and treaty rights of the aboriginal peoples of Canada are hereby recognized and affirmed."
The Duty to Consult process is part of the duty of all federal and provincial governments to maintain the Honour of the Crown. This obligation is tied in part to treaties that were entered into prior to New Brunswick’s creation. The treaties and the history of the relationship between the Crown and Aboriginal Peoples is unique to each province. In the Maritime provinces, a series of historic Peace and Friendship Treaties were signed by the British government and the Mi’gmaq, Wolastoqey and Peskotomuhkati peoples between 1725 and 1779. In addition, many decisions by a province may involve the federal government that has overriding responsibility to Aboriginal Peoples in Canada. The province of New Brunswick must navigate the complex relationships in a manner that follows the direction of the court and that balances the rights of Aboriginal Peoples with overarching societal interests.
The Honour of the Crown requires the province to act with integrity, respect Aboriginal Peoples’ rights and live up to the province’s legislated duties. The Department of Indigenous Affairs’ mandate includes making sure this Honour is maintained in the Duty to Consult process.
The Duty to Consult process will vary and may look different depending on the decision being considered by the province. At its core, it is an honourable process to provide a mechanism for a meaningful dialogue where First Nations can raise concerns, and for the province to take those concerns into account when making a decision that could have an adverse impact on Aboriginal and Treaty rights. A description of the Duty to Consult was provided by the former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada, Beverley McLachlin, when she stated:
At all stages, good faith on both sides is required. The common thread on the Crown’s part must be “the intention of substantially addressing [Aboriginal] concerns” as they are raised (Delgamuukw, supra, at para. 168), through a meaningful process of consultation. Sharp dealing is not permitted. However, there is no duty to agree; rather, the commitment is to a meaningful process of consultation. As for Aboriginal claimants, they must not frustrate the Crown's reasonable good faith attempts, nor should they take unreasonable positions to thwart government from making decisions or acting in cases where, despite meaningful consultation, agreement is not reached: see Halfway River First Nation v. British Columbia (Ministry of Forests), [1999] 4 C.N.L.R. 1 (B.C.C.A.), at p. 44; Heiltsuk Tribal Council v. British Columbia (Minister of Sustainable Resource Management) (2003), 19 B.C.L.R. (4th) 107 (B.C.S.C.). Mere hard bargaining, however, will not offend an Aboriginal people's right to be consulted.
Haida Nation v. British Columbia (Minister of Forests), 2004 SCC 73 Supreme Court of Canada at 42
The Department of Indigenous Affairs is mandated to lead a whole-of-government approach to consultation with First Nations. This means that all consultations with First Nations are coordinated through the department and based on an established five-step process that is applied consistently throughout the Government of New Brunswick.
Contemplated actions or decisions, i.e. policies, legislation, land use planning, economic development, etc., are assessed by the Department of Indigenous Affairs with the support of the responsible departments. If it is found that a decision or action being contemplated has the potential to adversely impact the Aboriginal or Treaty rights of New Brunswick First Nations, then the Duty to Consult process is triggered.
If the Duty to Consult is triggered, the Department of Indigenous Affairs is responsible for leading the consultation process. The lead, decision-making department or agency is responsible for working with the Department of Indigenous Affairs throughout the consultation process and providing the necessary expertise and knowledge related to their government programs and services. A process consisting of five distinct steps is followed, the design of which is to ensure that the rights of First Nations are respected and is in keeping with the direction of the court.
Note: Early engagement with First Nations at the project planning stage is recommended and is a best practice. More information is provided in the Information for proponents section.
The first step of the Duty to Consult process is an initial assessment of a contemplated action or decision by the province to determine whether there is a potential for an adverse impact to established or asserted Aboriginal and Treaty rights. This assessment is done using all information made available to the Department of Indigenous Affairs at the time. The province is always open to receiving new/additional information from First Nations and adjusting its assessment under this step based on what First Nations share.
Below are examples of provincial contemplated actions or decisions:
- Issuance of permits or leases
- Authorizations or approvals
- Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) determinations
- Infrastructure or other projects
- Strategy and policy development
If the Duty to Consult is triggered, the initial assessment will determine the next steps.
In this step, First Nations are notified of the contemplated decision or action under consideration and provided with a summary description, relevant information and the outcome of the initial assessment completed in Step 1.
In addition to the information outlined above, this notification also sets out:
- A proposed timeline for each remaining step of the process
- An offer to meet with First Nations to answer any initial questions
- The provision of any funding to First Nations for their participation and other items as may be required
Each Duty to Consult process is tailored to the decision or action being contemplated, and the Aboriginal and Treaty rights that have the potential to be adversely impacted.
This step of the Duty to Consult process is for First Nations to share any information with the province and/or proponent.
This may include the following:
- Information they have related to their rights
- The impact the decision or action may have on those rights
- How they think the province and/or proponent should address those impacts to rights
- Any other concerns that they may have
There is no restriction on what information the First Nations can share, and, in some cases, further meetings will be held during this step to ensure the province has, and clearly understands, all the information provided to date.
If new information regarding a decision or action being contemplated is shared, the province would take that into consideration.
This step includes further dialogue and exchange of information between First Nations and the province. Through correspondence and meetings, information is presented and further concerns, potential adverse impacts, and possible mitigation and accommodation measures are discussed. In many cases there will be agreement on certain items related to the decision or action, but often there are items where there are differing views. It is the intention that the province and First Nations will have a complete understanding of each other’s interests and concerns by the end of this step. There can be disagreement and difficult topics and conversations, but the province is always seeking to have good faith discussions that are focused on finding common ground, including on the identification of impacts to Aboriginal and Treaty rights and appropriate mitigation or accommodations where necessary and appropriate.
The need for and nature of mitigation or accommodation will vary depending on the identified potential adverse impact. In some cases, accommodation may include economic contributions to First Nations, mitigating the impact through changes to the implementation of the decision or action, involvement of First Nations in phases of implementation of any decision or action, or other steps by the province and/or proponent to address the concerns raised by First Nations.
This information is provided to First Nations, and in certain cases, sets out the need for further meetings or discussions to ensure the proposed accommodations are tailored to achieve the best result with First Nation input.
After completing the significant work associated with steps 1 through 4, the province takes the information gathered through discussions and correspondence, including the Issues and Tracking Log, and conducts an evaluation of the entire Duty to Consult process. This evaluation includes ensuring that all issues and concerns raised have been addressed. The Department of Indigenous Affairs reports to the decision maker regarding the consultation process, the proposed accommodations and any matters that were raised as part of the consultation. The decision maker may decide to not proceed with the decision or action, to amend/modify details related to the decision or action, proceed as planned with accommodations for impacts to Aboriginal and Treaty rights as needed, or some combination of the above to ensure adverse impacts are appropriately addressed.
Between January and December 2023, the Consultation Branch completed 17
file reviews under the Duty to Consult process. Of these, 2 (see table
below) were identified as having the potential to adversely impact
Aboriginal and Treaty rights resulting in initiation of the Duty to
Consult process.
Department(s) Responsible
File or Project Title
Department of Environment and Local Government
Pays de la Sagouine Repositioning Project
Department of Transportation and Infrastructure
McKay Brook Culvert
Between January and December 2022, the Consultation Branch completed 52 file reviews under the Duty to Consult process. Of these, 10 (see table below) were identified as having the potential to adversely impact Aboriginal and Treaty rights resulting in initiation of the Duty to Consult process.
Completed consultations (Jan-Dec 2022):
Department(s) Responsible
File or Project Title
Department of Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries
Blueberry Development Request for Proposal in the Former Tracadie Range
Department of Environment and Local Government
Premier Tech Horticulture – Peat development project on Crown Land
Department of Natural Resources and Energy Development
Nature Legacy Initiative- Phase 1 – Initiative to increase by 10% the protected land and water in N.B. by 2023
New Brunswick Power and Department of Environment and Local Government
New Brunswick Power Milltown Dam Decommissioning Project
Department of Environment and Local Government
DND Base Gagetown Renewable Energy Electrical Generation Facility Project
Department of Natural Resources and Energy Development
Delway Quarry Lease on Crown Land
Department of Natural Resources and Energy Development
Costal Enterprises Inc. sand and gravel quarry lease on Crown Land in the Lepreau area
Department of Environment and Local Government
Irving Pulp and Paper Environmental Treatment Facility and Water use Reduction System
Tourism, Heritage and Culture and Department of Environment and Local Government
Parlee Beach Provincial Park Tidal Inlet Dredging Project
Department of Environment and Local Government
Theriault&Hachey Peat Moss Ltd. - Peat Development project on Crown Land
As of January 22, 2024, there are 15 active consultation files and 41 files under review as part of the Duty to Consult process to determine if there is potential for adverse impact to Aboriginal and Treaty rights. The details regarding active consultation files are considered confidential.
Although courts have stated that proponents and third parties do not have a Duty to Consult, they do play an important role in the province’s Duty to Consult process because they often have in-depth knowledge of their proposed project and are better positioned to provide First Nations with detail at the project planning stage long before approval is sought by the province. This most often puts proponents in the best possible position to address concerns and potential adverse impacts to Aboriginal and Treaty rights, including avoiding and mitigating First Nations concerns early on.
The Department of Indigenous Affairs regularly provides guidance to proponents as it relates to early engagement with First Nations and the Duty to Consult process. To facilitate early engagement, the department can provide contact information for First Nations to proponents who are contemplating projects and want to engage with First Nations. Many First Nation communities in New Brunswick are supported by a consultation body and each may have a different structure and approach.
Once the Department of Indigenous Affairs receives adequate information regarding a contemplated project, the Consultation Branch within the department completes its initial assessment for potential adverse impacts to Aboriginal and Treaty rights (Step 1 of the Duty to Consult process) and will provide written notification to First Nations should there be a requirement for formal consultation. This notification is also shared with proponents and, although proponents and third parties do not have a legal duty to consult, the province may delegate procedural aspects of consultation to the proponent as part of the Duty to Consult process.
Proponents are encouraged to contact the Department of Indigenous Affairs with any questions and guidance on initial steps to be taken to ensure meaningful engagement and consultation with First Nations as soon as possible.
Contact us - FNconsultationPN@gnb.ca
Telephone: 506-462-5846
PROENERGY unable to back claims it has active Indigenous partners in 500 MW Centre Village gas plant
PROENERGY slide on display during two public information sessions this week in Sackville claiming that Indigenous investors already hold an ownership stake in the proposed gas plant project
PROENERGY, the U.S. company hired to build and operate a gas/diesel generating plant on the Chignecto Isthmus, was unable to back up its claims that the project has Indigenous support during a public question and answer session Wednesday night at the Tantramar Civic Centre.
After Sackville resident Shelley Chase questioned why an Indigenous representative was not at the front of the room to answer questions, Tristan Jackson came forward to discuss his involvement in the proposed RIGS Energy Atlantic gas plant.
Tristan Jackson, Facebook photo. Cameras and audio recorders were banned from last night’s meeting
Jackson is chief executive officer of Nikutik Limited Partnership, a newly created Indigenous Sovereign Wealth Fund that works with industry on clean energy projects to create economic independence for the seven First Nations that are members of the North Shore Mi’kmaq Tribal Council.
The Amlamgog (Fort Folly) First Nation is one of those members.
Jackson revealed that the seven chiefs who govern the council have not yet agreed to invest in the project.
He said Nikutik has secured an option for 2.5% of the equity and a
further option to acquire 33% at a later time, but he stressed those
options have not been exercised in spite of the U.S. company’s claim
that the gas plant “will be owned by PROENERGY and the North Shore Mi’kmaq Tribal Council.”
“I can’t speak for the First Nations,” Jackson said, adding that the option to invest does not mean that they endorse it.
“My job is to secure them opportunities,” he added.
Earlier in the day, he told Warktimes that he does not know what the seven chiefs will decide.
“They may invest in the project and then again, they may not,” he said.
‘Deceptive & misleading’
Later during last night’s question and answer session, someone from the audience said he had been speaking with local MP Dominic LeBlanc’s executive assistant who said he had the impression that the gas plant project had Indigenous support.
“Now, we hear that they haven’t decided whether to be stakeholders or shareholders,” the audience member said.
“It seems deceptive and misleading to say that they are.”
John MacIsaac, President PROENERGY Canada. Photo from Nalcor Energy via CBC & Halifax Examiner
John MacIsaac, president of PROENERGY Canada, replied that the company aims to be transparent suggesting that identifying the First Nations as “equity partners” was simpler than saying there is an options agreement.
He also blamed the media for misinterpreting the ownership situation.
“We’re potentially partners moving forward,” MacIsaac explained.
Tantramar MLA Megan Mitton also questioned why both PROENERGY and NB Power were claiming that the Tribal Council was a minority equity partner.
She added she had just learned that Elsipogtog Chief Arren Sock had written to NB Power to oppose the project.
“We will see what other First Nations decide,” she said.
Note: Warktimes has been unable to reach Fort Folly Chief Rebecca Knockwood. And, an assistant who answered the phone at Elsipogtog First Nation said Chief Arren Sock would not be available until September.
On August 12th Angie Pitre, a member of the Elsipogtog First Nation, submitted this comment opposing the project to the federal Impact Assessment Agency.
This is the first of two reports on the public Q&A session hosted by PROENERGY Canada.
North Shore Mi’kmaq Tribal Council announces Sovereign Wealth Fund, Nikutik LP
Natoaganeg First Nation, New Brunswick – The North Shore Mi’kmaq Tribal Council (NSMTC), alongside its seven Member Nations, has launched a new platform for economic growth. As a Sovereign Wealth Fund, Nikutik Limited Partnership will work with industry partners to develop new real assets focused on clean energy, engage in joint ventures, and create related economic opportunities for its Member Nations.
Nikutik brings together the NSMTC and its Member Nations – Amlamgog (Fort Folly) First Nation, Natoaganeg (Eel Ground) First Nation, Oinpegitjoig (Pabineau) First Nation, Tjipõgtõtjg (Buctouche) First Nation, L’nui Menikuk (Indian Island) First Nation, Ugpi’ganjig (Eel River Bar) First Nation, and Metepenagiag (Red Bank) Mi’kmaq Nation – as eight equal owners and limited partners in the fund. With considerable capacity to secure financing, including from government programs, leverage rightsholder status, and access expertise, Nikutik offers unique value to private sector companies interested in partnering on development projects.
The name “Nikutik,” meaning “growth” in Mi’kmaq, reflects a vision of
Indigenous-led economic development for Atlantic Canada, and economic
independence for First Nations.
Seizing Opportunities
Nikutik seeks to support projects that bring financial, social, environmental, and cultural benefits to NSMTC Member Nations and projects that position the Atlantic region as a global leader in clean energy innovation and development.
In December 2024, federal and provincial ministers announced over $1 billion in clean energy funding for New Brunswick. This funding includes support for up to 670 megawatts of Indigenous-led wind projects, a portion of which includes four projects led by Nikutik and partner First Nations and private developers.
Nikutik’s investment focus extends beyond energy. It intends to
partner on projects in nuclear medicine, advanced manufacturing, and
emerging fields such as data centers and hydrogen technology.
Economic and Community Impact
Nikutik will work toward long-term prosperity for its Member Nations by means of:
- Equity investments in development projects and partnerships with companies in growth sectors worldwide;
- Job creation for community members across various fields and industries;
- Investing in infrastructure projects within communities that expand access to clean energy and shared-use facilities to drive economic growth;
- Self-determination through Indigenous leadership and First Nation economic sovereignty.
Quotes
“The Nikutik Sovereign Wealth Fund is a small seed today but is
already growing very fast and will soon be making international news.
The technical and financial benefits of our projects are important, but
the most exciting aspect of what we are doing is that we are flipping
the order of business, from industry proponents planning projects, then
asking First Nations for acceptance, to First Nations planning projects,
then inviting industry and investors to participate. As we grow this
fund, we will also model a new approach to responsible economic
development.”
–Tristan Jackson, CEO, Nikutik
“Nikutik is about more than economic growth – it’s about creating
a future that reflects our values as Mi’kmaq people. This fund is our
commitment to the next seven generations, ensuring that our youth and
future generations have access to opportunities that honor their
potential and sustain our communities. By working with industry
partners, we are creating a foundation for shared success and showing
how Indigenous leadership and participation can shape the path forward,
not only here in New Brunswick, but across the world.”
–Jim Ward, General Manager, NSMTC | President, Nikutik
About the North Shore Mi’kmaq Tribal Council
The North Shore Mi’kmaq Tribal Council is a not-for-profit dedicated
to advancing innovation and promoting Indigenous involvement in major
projects within Mi’kma’ki. The NSMTC primarily serves its seven Member
Nations while extending support to 25 additional First Nations across
Atlantic Canada. The council provides service delivery, technical
support, and capacity-building in water and waste management, housing
and infrastructure, post-secondary education funding, training and
employment, community development, clean energy opportunities,
environmental stewardship, and health service coordination. The NSMTC’s
mission is to foster the health, sustainability, and economic prosperity
of its Member Nations.
Building Partnerships
Nikutik invites potential partners to collaborate on projects that align with its quadruple bottom-line values: Social Benefit, Environmental Stewardship, Profit, and Indigenous Culture. To express your interest, please contact:
Tristan Jackson
Chief Executive Officer, Nikutik
tristanjackson@nsmtc.ca
Media Inquiries
For media-related questions, contact:
Vanessa McLaughlin
Communications Officer, North Shore Mi’kmaq Tribal Council
vanessamclaughlin@nsmtc.ca | 506.210.1705
Tristan Jackson
CEO
Nikutik LP
About me
Advisory Board
Tantramar mayor calls for comprehensive EIA of proposed 500 MW gas plant on the Chignecto Isthmus
Tantramar Mayor Andrew Black
Tantramar Mayor Andrew Black has joined MLA Megan Mitton in calling for a comprehensive environmental impact assessment (EIA) of the proposed 500 MW gas and diesel generating plant near Centre Village on the Chignecto Isthmus.
During an interview with Warktimes on Tuesday, Black said he asked for the comprehensive EIA in an e-mail he sent this week to Premier Holt and the ministers responsible for the environment and local government.
“I said, I seriously recommend that you consider Megan Mitton’s request to have a comprehensive EIA on this project from day one,” Black said.
“The only response I’ve heard so far is that I’ll be receiving a response,” he added.
To read the mayor’s e-mail, click here.
Black included a spreadsheet in his e-mail summarizing every comment the town has received so far on the project.
It shows that the most frequently mentioned issue was about reports that the generating plant could use up to 7,000 cubic metres of water per day: “where is the water coming from/going to?!?!?”, the mayor’s spreadsheet quotes people as asking.
Other frequent comments included concerns about the ecological sensitivity of the Isthmus; its status as a critical wildlife corridor; the need to protect its biodiversity of flora and fauna and “environmental concerns as the project is disguised as a ‘green’ project while truly being a fossil fuel burning plant.”
The spreadsheet shows that people who e-mailed the town also expressed concerns about limited public debate and consultation on the project, the “flawed and grossly inadequate EIA” and the hiring of an American company to do the work — “and what if they walk away?”
Town’s role
Five e-mails called on local elected officials to speak out against the project, but Mayor Black says that at this stage, that’s not the town’s role.
“At this point, it’s not for the municipality to take a side,” Black told Warktimes.
“Our responsibility is to make sure that the environmental impact assessment is done properly, that there is involvement both with transparency to the public and to the municipality, and if there’s anything that’s flagged that comes from it, that we fight for that,” he said.
The mayor said he’s glad to see such an outpouring of comments on the proposed project.
“I’m really pleased to see this level of engagement from the community, which doesn’t surprise me considering where we live, but I am very pleased to see that.”
Open house Q&A
Black made his comments at the Sackville Music Barn where he was attending a public open house on the project hosted by PROENERGY, the company that has been hired to build and operate the plant.
The open house featured displays with participants given the chance to question officials during one-on-one conversations.
Things seemed to be going smoothly until the power went out after 5 p.m. and at 6, about 40 people showed up to demand a change in format that would allow the whole group to participate in a question and answer session with officials.
After a few heated exchanges, Mayor Black and MLA Mitton succeeded in persuading John MacIsaac, president of PROENERGY Canada, to include a two-hour question and answer session during today’s open house at the Tantramar Veterans Memorial Civic Centre.
The open house begins at 4 p.m. The Q&A session will run from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
2 Responses to Tantramar mayor calls for comprehensive EIA of proposed 500 MW gas plant on the Chignecto Isthmus
Harold Gerd Jarche
Address:
78 Bridge St
Sackville, NB E4L 3N9
CA
Mailling Address:
78 Bridge St
Sackville, NB E4L 3N9
CA
Phone: (506) 536-0516
Email: Click Here
Website: http://www.jarche.com
Jarche Consulting
Harold Jarche is an independent consultant specializing in performance improvement. His field of practice is Human Performance Technology, which is about the analysis and design of the systems that people work within. Technology in this sense means the application of organized and scientific knowledge to solve practical problems. Much of Harold's work through Jarche Consulting is focused on strategic planning for e-learning initiatives, or conducting analyses to determine the best workplace learning and performance programs. Harold has over twenty years experience in training, holds a Master's degree in education, and is a Certified Performance Technologist with ISPI.
Company Details
Year Established: 2003
Total Sales ($CDN): $1 - $100,000
Number of Employees: 2
Company Information
Harold JarcheTitle: Data Provider
Telephone: (506) 536-0516
Sent: August 10, 2025 11:53 AM
To: Holt, Susan Premier (PO/CPM) <susan.holt@gnb.ca>
Cc: Kennedy, Aaron Hon. (LG/GL-SNB) <aaron.kennedy@gnb.ca>; Awad, Charbel (ELG/EGL)
<charbel.awad@gnb.ca>; gilles.lepage@gnb.ca <gilles.lepage@gnb.ca>
Subject: Request for Comprehensive EIA
I am writing to you today in response to the proposed NBPower natural gas power plant
that is being planned to be constructed and operated here in the Municipality of
Tantramar.
There has been a lot of chatter in our community about this project, both for and against
and for various reasons. I will say that the most vocal people are those that are against the
project and the majority of those live in the same ward that the proposed project may be
constructed. People are scared and concerned about the full impacts of this project, but
while their concerns are 100% valid, some of the facts that are being thrown around are
difficult to prove or quantify. That being said, as far as elected officials go, we need to
recognize the concerns on both sides and represent our community as best as we can. I
want to say that some of this would have been avoided if NBPower/ProEnergy would have
initiated conversations with Tantramar well in advance of when the press release came out
(which is when we heard about it!!!). All of this being said, I have compiled a spreadsheet
with the comments/concerns and the number of times it has been mentioned in the many
emails we have received at the local level and I have attached that info to this email for you
to see. I want to recognize that it shows only one side of the story at the local level but, as I
said, we have heard comments for and against.
The municipality has had good conversations with both ProEnergy and NBPower and are
very pleased that there are two open house sessions coming up for the public to attend
and find out more information on the project. This is certainly a good start.
At this point, the Municipality of Tantramar is not taking a stance on this project as it is
not really our place to do so. BUT, I do know that our MLA Megan Mitton has sent a request
to you and Minister LePage to start the EIA process with a full and comprehensive EIA,
rather than waiting to see if something is flagged coming out of the regular process for this
development. I am requesting that you give serious consideration to this request. I know
that it may slow the process down to get the project ready for 2028 and to support the grid,
but I think it would serve NBPower and ProEnergy well to make sure that this project is truly
sound......and it would certainly assuage some fears, and maybe silence some, with the
residents that we serve.
At the end of the day I believe in process, policy and procedure and I am hopeful that the
EIA and any other studies that need to be done will be conducted properly and in a fully
Tantramar and New Brunswick.
Thank you for your time and the consideration of my request.
Mayor
(506) 364-4930 - Town Hall
(506) 224-0125 - Cell
a.black@tantramarNB.com
www.tantramarNB.com
Midgic meeting discusses how to stop proposed 500 MW gas plant on Chignecto Isthmus
Terry Jones (L) and Juliette Bulmer along with Kristen Nicole LeBlanc organized Monday’s meeting
About 80 people gathered in the basement of the Midgic Baptist Church Monday night to discuss ways of stopping NB Power from building a massive natural gas generating plant near Centre Village on the ecologically sensitive Chignecto Isthmus.
“Ultimately, the biggest impact that we’re going to find is going to come to our wetlands, our water and our wells,” said meeting organizer Terry Jones whose 178 acre family property is only 1.4 kilometres from the proposed 500 MW gas plant.
“And this water damage is going to travel all the way to the Tantramar River, to Sackville, to the aquifers down there. So to think that it’s just a Centre Village project, that’s just the tip of the iceberg,” she added.
“What we need to do is look at slowing this project down for sure so that we have time,” Jones said, “because if everything passes through, they’re going to start in the fall drilling test wells, and in January, first quarter of next year, building and starting the infrastructure.”
“It’s not that we’re anti-progress or anti-development. Not at all,” meeting organizer and Midgic resident Juliette Bulmer told the meeting.
“It’s just such a sensitive area right here. It’s one of the few corridors where we have the migratory birds, the moose project and all kinds of things,” she added.
“A lot of you have been living on the land for a long time. You’ve got generations of families and you know what it’s been like living here,” Bulmer said as someone in the audience called out, “The water is so good here.”
“The water is so good here,” Bulmer repeated.
“We have a right to have clean water, clean air and to enjoy our property,” Jones said adding there’s potential for safe, eco-friendly tourism in the area.
“But, we’re looking at building a concrete pad up there and sticking in generating stations.”
No ‘confidence’ in province
Tantramar MLA Megan Mitton
Tantramar MLA Megan Mitton reported on the provincial environment minister’s response to her letter calling for a comprehensive environmental impact assessment (EIA) that would require extensive public consultations.
She said Gilles LePage wrote back to say he would not decide on whether to order a comprehensive EIA until initial reviews had been completed and he added: “It should be noted that Comprehensive reviews are generally required for large scale projects like mines, refineries, nuclear power, etc.”
“So, I don’t have confidence in the provincial government,” Mitton said.
She offered to use her constituency office to co-ordinate e-mail and telephone lists as a tool for organizing and sharing information. She said she will also present petitions against the project in the legislature, but warned it won’t meet until October and it’s easy for the government to ignore petitions.
Diesel dangers
Pam Novak and Barry Rothfuss of the Atlantic Wildlife Institute
Barry Rothfuss, executive director of the Atlantic Wildlife Institute (AWI), which would be 4.5 kilometres from the generating plant, spoke about his expertise in dealing with the environmental effects of projects like this.
AWI is the only organization in Atlantic Canada that is certified to deal with risks and threats to ecologically sensitive flora and fauna and the only one certified to suggest ways of mitigating damage when it occurs.
“I’ve been in a lot of facilities like this,” he said. “Just to access these facilities, you need special training. You need understanding of the environments you’re walking into.”
He added that the big, 10-generator plant will be using diesel fuel as a backup to natural gas and that would require a diesel storage capacity of three million gallons.
Rothfuss said if significant leaks occurred, local organizations would not have the capacity to deal with them.
“These types of facilities are notorious for leaks and things going wrong and human error,” he added.
In addition to AWI, speakers for the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society and EOS Eco-Energy expressed their environmental concerns about the proposed gas and diesel plant.
Renewable alternatives
Leslie Chandler
Activist Leslie Chandler told the meeting there are alternatives to fossil fuels such as gas and diesel.
“There’s something called BESS which is battery energy storage systems. The cost of those systems has dropped 50% since 2022,” she said.
“And building one of those is cheaper than a gas plant,” she added referring to a report from the Clean Energy States Alliance in Maine.
Chandler noted that PROENERGY, the American company contracted to build and operate the gas plant, is holding open houses from 4 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, August 12th at the Sackville Music Barn and on Wednesday, August 13th at the Tantramar Veterans Memorial Civic Centre.
She urged people to carry one message to company representatives.
“Say our community is not having this and we are going renewable. Yeah, we’re just not buying it, we’re not having it, it’s not happening here and we’re going renewable,” she concluded.
Meeting participants on one side of the church basement. A total of about 80 people attended the meeting
Commentary: Key questions need answers before Centre Village natural gas plant is built
Note to readers: The following commentary raises questions about the 500 MW natural gas generating plant that NB Power is proposing for the ecologically sensitive Chignecto Isthmus near Centre Village in the Town of Tantramar. NB Power announced last month that it had awarded a contract to the American company PROENERGY to build and operate the plant for at least 25 years on a 550 acre site that NB Power bought nearly a year ago. The project would consist of 10 natural gas generators that would use low-sulphur diesel fuel as a backup.
By Bradley Walters, PhD, Professor of Geography & Environment, Mount Allison University
Mount Allison Professor Bradley Walters. Photo: Mount Allison University
I have real concerns about the potential for significant local impacts from the proposed Centre Village gas power plant project on wildlife, water and air quality, but will restrict my comments here to the issue of wider energy policy and greenhouse gas emissions. These are subjects I’ve been discussing with my students for many years at Mount Allison University.
The way this project is being framed seems appealing. The proponents are presenting it as a means to transition away from dirtier fossil fuels like coal and heavy oil while enabling the expansion of intermittent renewables such as wind and solar. The idea is that there needs to be a way of providing baseload power when the wind isn’t blowing or the sun isn’t shining. Baseload power is the minimum amount of electricity that needs to be supplied to the electrical grid at any given time.
If we indeed had to choose between fossil fuel power options, natural gas is probably the better one for this purpose. However, I’m highly skeptical that we’re limited in our choices and that fossil fuels are the answer.
‘Clean’ power sources
New Brunswick already has access to large amounts of ‘clean’, so-called, ‘baseload’ power in the form of Point Lepreau nuclear, Mactaquac hydro, and hydro imports from Quebec. In particular, Hydro Québec (HQ) is a possible source of massive, additional ‘clean’, baseload power given our province already imports electricity from it and HQ exports even more south of the border (New England, New York State) and to Ontario.
Is there a reason that increased electricity imports from HQ are not on the table as a viable alternative to both reducing existing fossil emissions from NB sources and backstopping intermittent renewables?
Such a scenario seems all the more relevant given the heightened talk of a so-called ‘Atlantic Loop’ that would integrate electricity production and transmission across the Atlantic Provinces and possibly Quebec. And then, there are the proposals now being seriously considered for massive development of offshore wind in Nova Scotia.
In short, the days of thinking provincially about electricity supply and demand rather than regionally and nationally/internationally are coming to an end. Is the proposed Centre Village project being effectively evaluated in light of these regional trends and related planning?
Battery storage
If backstopping NB’s intermittent renewables (existing and planned) from existing baseload sources is genuinely not an option (although I doubt that is the case), then I wonder whether alternatives like battery storage paired with specific intermittent, renewable power sources has been considered as an alternative.
Large-scale battery storage costs have declined rapidly in recent years, so much so that these are increasingly being chosen as the default option by power developers in the United States, Europe and elsewhere. Granted, the up-front costs of building such storage units are sizeable, but the up-front costs of battery storage need to be weighed against their reduced carbon emissions, lower local environmental effects, and gains in long-term energy and financial security.
For example, natural gas prices are currently low by historical standards, but aren’t likely to stay that way. When gas prices inevitably rise, will the economics of natural gas-fired power still look appealing compared to the alternatives?
It’s also worth noting that massive investments in Canadian battery manufacturing are currently underway, mostly in Ontario. This should lead to continued declines in battery costs and also offer New Brunswick a Canadian rather than an American-made solution to the need for baseload power. In the decision to go with gas-fired power, were such considerations even evaluated and if not, why not?
Finally, it appears that the proposed Centre Village generators will burn fracked gas from the U.S. While it’s important to appreciate that natural gas offers a far more efficient way to generate power on-site compared to conventional coal or oil, whole life-cycle assessments of fracked natural gas that take into account the energy consumed by extraction processes, climate impacts of methane leakages, etc., suggest it may not offer much net gain in terms of overall greenhouse gas emissions.
In short, local efficiencies and effects are only part of the picture and there are many key questions that need to be answered before this natural gas plant goes ahead.
Bradley Walters, PhD, Professor of Geography & Environment, Mount Allison University, Sackille, NB
Note: See below for details of public meeting on Monday, August 11th.
---------- Original message ---------
From: Mitton, Megan (LEG) <Megan.Mitton@gnb.ca>
Date: Mon, Aug 11, 2025 at 6:12 PM
Subject: Automatic reply: RE N.B. Power, U.S. company pick Tantramar site for natural gas plant
To: David Amos <david.raymond.amos333@gmail.com>
From: David Amos <david.raymond.amos333@gmail.com>
Date: Mon, Aug 11, 2025 at 6:11 PM
Subject: RE N.B. Power, U.S. company pick Tantramar site for natural gas plant
To: <cevans@proenergyservices.com>, <JCanon@proenergyservices.com>, Clark, Lori <lclark@nbpower.com>, <wallsenergysolutions@gmail.com>, <JimWard@nsmtc.ca>, Mitton, Megan (LEG) <megan.mitton@gnb.ca>, <EFraser@nbpower.com>
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New 400 MW Peaking Facility Developed in Partnership with NB Power and North Shore Mi'kmaq Tribal Council (NSMTC)
SEDALIA, Mo., July 14, 2025 /CNW/ -- PROENERGY has been awarded a contract to develop, construct, own, and operate the New Brunswick Power Corporation (NB Power) Renewable Integration and Grid Security (RIGS) project in Centre Village. The facility—a 400 MW PowerFLX installation driven by eight aeroderivative turbines—will operate under a power purchase agreement with NB Power as the offtaker for 25 years.
The facility will maximize the potential of the province's renewable investment. It will provide the reliable backup support that wind and solar generation requires in addition to providing grid stability.
"At NB Power, our commitment is to provide secure and sustainable energy for New Brunswickers. Launching this generation expansion project addresses the pressing need to enhance our grid's reliability and security to meet the unprecedented growth in energy demand," said Lori Clark, President, CEO & Chief Nuclear Officer. "Partnering to secure additional electricity and capacity through this project ensures we can confidently navigate the energy transition, providing New Brunswickers with the reliable electricity they need, when they need it most."
Located in Westmorland County, New Brunswick, the facility will minimize impact on the surrounding environment due to its proximity to existing transmission and fuel infrastructure while reducing provincial reliance on oil, coal, and imported power.
"This project is an essential part of a clean, reliable, affordable power grid, and it's a great example of our approach to Indigenous-led, responsible development," says Jim Ward, General Manager of North Shore Mi'kmaq Tribal Council. "We need clean energy, and we need to keep costs down and keep the power on. We've seen in other places how too much renewable energy can cause grid failures or high costs. To avoid those issues, this load-following power plant is a perfect complement to New Brunswick wind and solar power now and in the future. PROENERGY has been a great partner on this. We welcome other developers to get in touch with us."
The project will enter commercial operations in 2028.
"Our team has a deep understanding of Eastern Canada. PROENERGY appreciates the trust placed in us by NB Power and the North Shore Mi'kmaq Tribal Council to provide the reliable fast-start power they need," says Jeff Canon, PROENERGY President and CEO.
About PROENERGY
Based in Sedalia, Missouri,
PROENERGY is a global peaking-power solutions provider with operational
experience on every continent. The company offers vertically integrated
aeroderivative power solutions, including equipment, engineering,
construction, operations, repair, maintenance, research, and true,
turnkey power generation facilities that include the complete balance of
plant. For more on PROENERGY, visit www.proenergyservices.com.
SOURCE PROENERGY
Chris Evans, VP Marketing, (660) 829-5100, cevans@proenergyservices.com
https://ca.finance.yahoo.com/news/proenergy-awarded-contract-build-own-161600080.html
PROENERGY Awarded Contract to Build, Own, and Operate Fast-Start Power Facility in New Brunswick, Canada
New 400 MW Peaking Facility Developed in Partnership with NB Power and North Shore Mi'kmaq Tribal Council (NSMTC)
SEDALIA, Mo., July 14, 2025 /CNW/ -- PROENERGY has been awarded a contract to develop, construct, own, and operate the New Brunswick Power Corporation (NB Power) Renewable Integration and Grid Security (RIGS) project in Centre Village. The facility—a 400 MW PowerFLX installation driven by eight aeroderivative turbines—will operate under a power purchase agreement with NB Power as the offtaker for 25 years.
The facility will maximize the potential of the province's renewable investment. It will provide the reliable backup support that wind and solar generation requires in addition to providing grid stability.
"At NB Power, our commitment is to provide secure and sustainable energy for New Brunswickers. Launching this generation expansion project addresses the pressing need to enhance our grid's reliability and security to meet the unprecedented growth in energy demand," said Lori Clark, President, CEO & Chief Nuclear Officer. "Partnering to secure additional electricity and capacity through this project ensures we can confidently navigate the energy transition, providing New Brunswickers with the reliable electricity they need, when they need it most."
Located in Westmorland County, New Brunswick, the facility will minimize impact on the surrounding environment due to its proximity to existing transmission and fuel infrastructure while reducing provincial reliance on oil, coal, and imported power.
"This project is an essential part of a clean, reliable, affordable power grid, and it's a great example of our approach to Indigenous-led, responsible development," says Jim Ward, General Manager of North Shore Mi'kmaq Tribal Council. "We need clean energy, and we need to keep costs down and keep the power on. We've seen in other places how too much renewable energy can cause grid failures or high costs. To avoid those issues, this load-following power plant is a perfect complement to New Brunswick wind and solar power now and in the future. PROENERGY has been a great partner on this. We welcome other developers to get in touch with us."
The project will enter commercial operations in 2028.
"Our team has a deep understanding of Eastern Canada. PROENERGY appreciates the trust placed in us by NB Power and the North Shore Mi'kmaq Tribal Council to provide the reliable fast-start power they need," says Jeff Canon, PROENERGY President and CEO.
About PROENERGY
Based in Sedalia, Missouri,
PROENERGY is a global peaking-power solutions provider with operational
experience on every continent. The company offers vertically integrated
aeroderivative power solutions, including equipment, engineering,
construction, operations, repair, maintenance, research, and true,
turnkey power generation facilities that include the complete balance of
plant. For more on PROENERGY, visit www.proenergyservices.com.
View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/proenergy-awarded-contract-to-build-own-and-operate-fast-start-power-facility-in-new-brunswick-canada-302504461.html
N.B. Power, U.S. company pick Tantramar site for natural gas plant
Private developer says new facility with Mi’kmaw partners will allow for more renewable energy
N.B. Power has changed the location of a proposed natural gas plant it wants to see built in southeast New Brunswick, opting for a remote location in the Tantramar area instead of a site in Scoudouc.
The plant would begin operating in 2028 and would be able to generate 500 megawatts of electricity, most of it to meet growing demand caused by population growth.
It would also emit greenhouse gases, though N.B. Power said last year there would be a net reduction in emissions provincially because the new plant would provide backup generation for an increasing share of wind and solar energy on the grid.
"Today, for example, there's 400 megawatts of installed wind energy in New Brunswick and only about 40 megawatts is producing electricity," Brad Coady, N.B. Power's vice-president of business development, said in an interview.
"What we're looking for is nimble machines that can come on, come on quickly and only stay on as long as is needed to integrate that wind energy. It'll fill in the voids when the wind isn't there and the sun isn't there."
The plant would be built by Missouri-based ProEnergy and operated by its subsidiary, Rigs Energy Atlantic, which includes a minority equity investment from the North Shore Mi'kmaq Tribal Council made up of seven First Nations.
N.B. Power, U.S. builder pick Tantramar site for gas plantJohn MacIsaac, who is heading the project for private developer ProEnergy Canada, said the plant will allow N.B. Power to reduce its overall greenhouse gas emissions by 250,000 tonnes a year.
The 20-hectare site is in Centre Village, along Route 940, within the municipality of Tantramar.
It's where the Maritimes and Northeast natural gas pipeline crosses paths with an N.B. Power transmission line.
The plant would draw gas from that pipeline to run 10 turbines that would generate power to sell on the grid under a 25-year purchase agreement.
The assessment submission says the Tantramar site was chosen after consultations with the Mi'kmaw council, which said there would be fewer environmental impacts than at the Scoudouc site.
The preliminary site layout shows where the plant's 10 turbines will be located on Route 940 in Tantramar. (Credit: ProEnergy)
If the plant is approved, preliminary work would start in early 2026, and it would be operating by the third quarter of 2028.
MacIsaac said his figure of a 250,000-tonne net reduction in N.B. Power's greenhouse gas emissions came from ProEnergy's discussions with the utility.
A utility spokesperson gave that figure last year and said the reduction would come from avoiding the use of coal at the Belledune generation station and fuel oil at Coleson Cove — both of which emit more carbon dioxide — to back up renewables.
But that calculation was based on what the spokesperson said would be 100,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions from the gas plant itself in its first year of operation.
ProEnergy's assessment document says it would emit more than 910,000 tonnes.
Neither MacIsaac nor Coady were able to explain the difference in the two figures.
N.B. Power officials said in 2023 that they had come close to not being able to meet the demand for electricity in the province during a February cold snap.
Since then, the utility has faced lengthy shutdowns at two power plants and is now planning for the phaseout of coal from its Belledune generating station by 2030.
The application says the utility had calculated it would need more generation in the early 2030s but now believes it may require it by the winter of 2028.
Asking people to cut back on consumption wouldn't reduce demand enough, it says.
Coady said N.B. Power would use 400 megawatts from the plant, about 80 per cent of its capacity, and the additional 100 megawatts could be part of a future agreement to supply other provinces.
Brad
Coady, N.B. Power’s vice-president of business development, says power
from the gas plant would 'fill in the voids when the wind isn't there
and the sun isn't there.' (John Collicott/CBC News)
"There's potential there, there's opportunity there, and I'll say we're working on it."
The project will go through a federal environmental impact assessment. Provincially, the environment minister can waive the need for a separate process based on the recommendation of a technical review committee.
The plant will also use ultra-low sulphur diesel as a backup fuel.
It could eventually use hydrogen — a gas often touted as an even cleaner alternative — but the submission says it is "currently not technically or economically feasible."
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
John MacIsaac tapped as new N.L. Hydro president
Nalcor CEO says appointment part of 'fundamental change' in operations, structure
Nalcor Energy has announced that John MacIsaac has been appointed president of Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro.
MacIsaac previously ran operations at the Churchill Falls generating station in Labrador, and oversaw major engineering projects within Nalcor.
The appointment is part of what Nalcor Energy CEO Ed Martin described as a "fundamental change" in the corporation's operating mode and organizational structure.It comes a day after the provincial government announced it has hired an external consultant to review the governance structure for Nalcor.
"Over the past year we have been preparing for this transition and the steps taken today are integral to our success in bringing Muskrat Falls online and exporting our power to markets in the U.S," Martin said in a news release.
Rob Henderson takes on new role
In addition to MacIsaac's appointment, Martin also announced that Rob Henderson, the former vice-president of N.L. Hydro, will lead Nalcor's so-called transition and integration efforts.
Crown-owned Nalcor is the parent company of N.L. Hydro.
The position of N.L. Hydro president is a new one, and is part of an evolution at Nalcor as it prepares to connect to the North American energy grid following the completion of the the 824-megawatt Lower Churchill hydroelectric project at Muskrat Falls, the Labrador Island Link and the Maritime Island Link.
The appointments coincide with a major period of growth for Nalcor, with the value of managed assets increasing from $2 billion to $11 billion over the past decade.
That figure is expected to grow to $14 billion within five years.
Martin said Hydro has made significant improvements over the past 18 months to increase the reliability of the electricity system.
"We are focused today on ensuring we provide customers with the service quality they expect while ensuring we are managing the electricity system for their future needs as well," he said.
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Carney promises First Nations leaders prosperity for 'generations to come' at summit on major projects
'Definitely it is not consultation,' says AFN regional chief about summit
Prime Minister Mark Carney promised First Nations rights-holders wealth and prosperity for "generations to come" at a summit Thursday designed to allay leaders concerned about the government's major projects law, which has ignited criticism because it allows for fast-tracked approvals.
Carney said the law, known as Bill C-5 before its passage through Parliament in June, is designed to "connect and transform our national economy" at a time when the country is facing threats from U.S. President Donald Trump.
He said the potential benefits that come from building new railways, ports and energy "corridors" will flow to First Nations because "Indigenous economic growth is at the centre" of this new framework.
The regulatory structure will ensure big projects get "built in the right way" with adequate consultation of affected Indigenous communities, he said.
"Being a reliable partner to Indigenous Peoples goes beyond upholding the duty to consult — to enabling the creation of long-term wealth and prosperity for Indigenous Peoples through full equity ownership," Carney said, pointing to the Indigenous-owned Cedar liquefied natural gas (LNG) project in B.C. as something to emulate elsewhere.
"Canada's new government is committed to working together so that we can build Canada together for everyone's benefit," he said.
Still, Carney anticipated there will be criticism of the new law — something he said Thursday he's not willing to amend despite opposition.
"We recognize there are diverse perspectives, which is exactly why we invited a broad range of First Nations leadership to participate today," he said.
The two-day summit at the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau, Que., launched Wednesday afternoon and runs all day Thursday.
C-5 sped through Parliament and was amended to require provincial consent for national projects, but the Senate voted down Mi'kmaw Sen. Paul Prosper's proposed provision to include free, prior and informed consent in the language of the bill.
"Our rights cannot be implemented or respected without us, in substance and in process," said Assembly of First Nations National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak at a news conference in Ottawa Wednesday.
"They cannot be respected after the fact."
Woodhouse said the over 600 First Nations from across the country have a diversity of opinion on the legislation and the summit should have occurred prior to the bill's passing.
She said she wants Carney to come to the table with meaningful amendments to Bill C-5 and solutions to the "$350-billion gap in infrastructure for First Nations kids in this country."
At the AFN news conference, Joanna Bernard from Madawaska Maliseet First Nation, AFN regional chief for New Brunswick, said Carney's summit isn't really consultation.
"They're coming in, they're putting up the agenda, they're deciding how this is going to proceed, but definitely it is not consultation. If it was we wouldn't be here, we would be running the agenda, and this is not the case today," said Bernard.
AFN chief wants 'more listening' from PM as Bill C-5 summit beginsCarney has said Indigenous consultation is central to the major projects bill, but Indigenous leaders have said that's a difficult promise to trust without explicit amendments.
"Until an appropriate process founded in free, prior and informed consent is established between First Nations rights holders and the Crown, the Crown's legal obligations will not be met," said Woodhouse Nepinak.
"Chiefs have made it very clear that First Nation consent for major projects is not optional."
On Monday, nine First Nations in Ontario filed a legal challenge against Bill C-5, and an Ontario law, Bill 5. The First Nations want the court to find the two laws unconstitutional.
The Supreme Court has previously ruled First Nations have a right to be consulted on projects under Indigenous rights and title — but they do not have a final veto on if a project goes ahead.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
With files from J.P. Tasker, Julia Alevato
Michael Wernick (born September 1957) is a Canadian retired public servant who served as the 23rd clerk of the Privy Council for Canada from 2016 to 2019. Following his tenure as clerk, Wernick joined the University of Ottawa, where he was named Jarislowsky chair of public sector management.
Wernick joined the public service in 1981. Before becoming clerk, Wernick was the deputy clerk under Janice Charette.[4] He was previously the deputy minister for the Department of Indian Affairs and Northern Development from May 2006 to July 11, 2014.[5] He has held several other positions in the Privy Council Office and as associate deputy minister for the Department of Canadian Heritage.[3]
Big emissions estimate a worst-case scenario, gas plant builder says
U.S. company that will build Tantramar plant endorses N.B. Power’s math showing net greenhouse gas reductions
The U.S. company hired to build a natural gas plant in southeast New Brunswick says an annual greenhouse gas emissions estimate of 900,000 tonnes per year is a worst-case scenario that is unlikely to come to pass.
That figure, contained in the company's environmental impact assessment submission, is nine times higher than what N.B. Power said when the plant was first announced last December.
But a spokesperson for ProEnergy said the number comes from a "stressed case" scenario in which the plant would be "responding to a major upheaval in the grid," operating at full capacity for almost one-third of the year.
"In our experience, this type of operation would not happen over a long duration period as market conditions and grid operations would respond appropriately," spokesperson Chris Evans said in an emailed statement ot CBC News.
How much carbon dioxide will a proposed new gas plant emit? Evans said the estimate of 100,000 tonnes from N.B. Power is "the expected, typical operation of a peaking plant" like the one it plans to build.
Green MLA Megan Mitton, whose Tantramar riding is where the plant will be built, called the difference between the estimates "an astounding gap."
Following ProEnergy's explanation, Mitton said she still questioned the need for a new natural gas plant to generate electricity.
Green
MLA Megan Mitton, whose Tantramar riding will be the site of a new
natural gas plant, has concerns with varying emissions projections. (Silas Brown/CBC)
"This supposed transition fuel — this transition is taking way too long," she said.
"It's not actually a transition. It's keeping us locked in with this type of infrastructure. We shouldn't be building new fossil fuel infrastructure."
N.B. Power said it will buy electricity from the plant to provide backup power to the utility's growing use of renewable wind and solar energy.
Because those sources aren't constant, the grid requires a more reliable base load of electricity it can turn on and off quickly when it's needed.
Both N.B. Power and ProEnergy said the gas plant will allow the utility to use less electricity from fuel oil at the Coleson Cove plant and from coal at Belledune, leading to a net reduction in greenhouse gas emissions of 250,000 tonnes a year.
Mitton said there's debate about whether natural gas is any better than coal because of methane leakage that can happen in the natural gas supply chain.
ProEnergy's EIA assessment said N.B. Power looked at other options, including energy conservation to lower consumption, and large-scale battery storage of renewable energy to meet peak demand.
But other options weren't enough to head off a potential shortfall of electricity generation as early as 2028, the submission says.
ProEnergy is seeking approval for a plant with 10 turbines capable of generating 500 megawatts of power, though the agreement with N.B. Power is for 400 megawatts from eight turbines.
The utility said this week it could sign agreements with other provinces to add those two turbines and export the electricity regionally.
Mitton said people in her Tantramar riding are just starting to hear about the gas plant and are questioning whether it's needed and why N.B. Power selected an American company in the midst of a trade dispute with the U.S.
N.B. Power vice-president Brad Coady said the utility invited bids long before the trade dispute began, and five companies submitted bids, including Canadian companies.
"We went with who could deliver the least-cost solution on the schedule that N.B. Power is demanding to meet our energy security needs," he said.
Brotman
Generating Station in Rosharon, Texas, has similar components and
layout as the proposed project that ProEnergy will build in Tantramar. (ProEnergy)
"If you look at it through those two lenses, our chosen partner in this project by far was the best solution for New Brunswickers."
The project must go through a federal environmental assessment. The provincial government is able to waive the need for a separate provincial review.
Work is projected to start at the site early next year, with the plant operational in the third quarter of 2028.
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NB Power announces new generation capacity expansion project and development partner
2025-07-14
Fredericton (NB) - Today NB Power is announcing the Renewable Integration and Grid Security (RIGS) project, the first firm generation capacity expansion project in over two decades and the selected developer to ensure security for New Brunswickers.
New Brunswick has experienced unprecedented population growth resulting in an increase in electricity demand. As the utility continues the transition to more sustainable energy sources, solutions are needed for colder winters when there's no wind to power turbines, or when it's too cloudy for solar panels.
In the latest Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), NB Power identified a potential shortfall in generation capacity in the 2030s. As electricity demand has accelerated beyond what was predicted in that IRP, a potential shortfall is now forecast for 2028. To address this, it is essential to take the necessary steps now to secure additional capacity to ensure New Brunswickers have the power they need, when they need it.
“At NB Power, our commitment is to provide secure and sustainable energy for New Brunswickers. Launching this generation expansion project addresses the pressing need to enhance our grid's reliability and security to meet the unprecedented growth in energy demand,” said Lori Clark, President, CEO & Chief Nuclear Officer. “Partnering to secure additional electricity and capacity through this project ensures we can confidently navigate the energy transition, providing New Brunswickers with the reliable electricity they need, when they need it most.”
To prevent any energy shortfalls from occurring, NB Power issued a Request for Expressions of Interest in 2024 for a new generation facility equipped with dual-fuel combustion turbines and grid stabilizing synchronous condensers. The facility will serve as critical backup during gaps in renewable energy availability, ensuring there are no disruptions during extreme weather conditions or during times of peak demand. In addition, these generators will displace the use of heavier greenhouse gas emitting generators.
Following a thorough evaluation process, PROENERGY has been selected as the contractor to build and operate this facility. This partnership is a strategic win for NB Power as it allows us to leverage the efficiency and specialized expertise of industry. A significant added benefit is PROENERGY's commitment to using local contractors and labour, ensuring that this project brings direct economic benefits to New Brunswickers.
The facility, which will be owned and operated by PROENERGY subsidiary RIGS Energy Atlantic LP, will be situated along Route 940 in Midgic, Centre Village on NB Power owned land.
“Our team has a deep understanding of Eastern Canada. PROENERGY appreciates the trust placed in us by NB Power and the North Shore Mi’kmaq Tribal Council to provide the reliable fast-start power they need,” said Jeff Canon, PROENERGY President and CEO.
“This project is an essential part of a clean, reliable, affordable power grid, and it’s a great example of our approach to Indigenous-led, responsible development,” said Jim Ward, General Manager of North Shore Mi’kmaq Tribal Council. “We need clean energy, and we need to keep costs down and keep the power on. We’ve seen in other places how too much renewable energy can cause grid failures or high costs. To avoid those issues, this load-following power plant is a perfect complement to New Brunswick wind and solar power now and in the future. PROENERGY has been a great partner on this. We welcome other developers to get in touch with us.”
PROENERGY has filed an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) has been filed with the Department of Environment and Local Government and open houses will be held through the summer. The EIA can be viewed here.
Media Contacts
NB Power
Elizabeth Fraser - EFraser@nbpower.com
PROENERGY
Chris Evans - cevans@proenergyservices.comNB Power announces new generation capacity expansion project and development partner
2025-07-14
Fredericton (NB) - Today NB Power is announcing the Renewable Integration and Grid Security (RIGS) project, the first firm generation capacity expansion project in over two decades and the selected developer to ensure security for New Brunswickers.
New Brunswick has experienced unprecedented population growth resulting in an increase in electricity demand. As the utility continues the transition to more sustainable energy sources, solutions are needed for colder winters when there's no wind to power turbines, or when it's too cloudy for solar panels.
In the latest Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), NB Power identified a potential shortfall in generation capacity in the 2030s. As electricity demand has accelerated beyond what was predicted in that IRP, a potential shortfall is now forecast for 2028. To address this, it is essential to take the necessary steps now to secure additional capacity to ensure New Brunswickers have the power they need, when they need it.
“At NB Power, our commitment is to provide secure and sustainable energy for New Brunswickers. Launching this generation expansion project addresses the pressing need to enhance our grid's reliability and security to meet the unprecedented growth in energy demand,” said Lori Clark, President, CEO & Chief Nuclear Officer. “Partnering to secure additional electricity and capacity through this project ensures we can confidently navigate the energy transition, providing New Brunswickers with the reliable electricity they need, when they need it most.”
To prevent any energy shortfalls from occurring, NB Power issued a Request for Expressions of Interest in 2024 for a new generation facility equipped with dual-fuel combustion turbines and grid stabilizing synchronous condensers. The facility will serve as critical backup during gaps in renewable energy availability, ensuring there are no disruptions during extreme weather conditions or during times of peak demand. In addition, these generators will displace the use of heavier greenhouse gas emitting generators.
Following a thorough evaluation process, PROENERGY has been selected as the contractor to build and operate this facility. This partnership is a strategic win for NB Power as it allows us to leverage the efficiency and specialized expertise of industry. A significant added benefit is PROENERGY's commitment to using local contractors and labour, ensuring that this project brings direct economic benefits to New Brunswickers.
The facility, which will be owned and operated by PROENERGY subsidiary RIGS Energy Atlantic LP, will be situated along Route 940 in Midgic, Centre Village on NB Power owned land.
“Our team has a deep understanding of Eastern Canada. PROENERGY appreciates the trust placed in us by NB Power and the North Shore Mi’kmaq Tribal Council to provide the reliable fast-start power they need,” said Jeff Canon, PROENERGY President and CEO.
“This project is an essential part of a clean, reliable, affordable power grid, and it’s a great example of our approach to Indigenous-led, responsible development,” said Jim Ward, General Manager of North Shore Mi’kmaq Tribal Council. “We need clean energy, and we need to keep costs down and keep the power on. We’ve seen in other places how too much renewable energy can cause grid failures or high costs. To avoid those issues, this load-following power plant is a perfect complement to New Brunswick wind and solar power now and in the future. PROENERGY has been a great partner on this. We welcome other developers to get in touch with us.”
PROENERGY has filed an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) has been filed with the Department of Environment and Local Government and open houses will be held through the summer. The EIA can be viewed here.
Media Contacts
NB Power
Elizabeth Fraser - EFraser@nbpower.com
PROENERGY
Chris Evans - cevans@proenergyservices.com
Registrations and Determinations
NOTICE: The Department of Environment and Local Government’s Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) registration process is being modernized through the development of an online EIA portal. Before submitting EIA registration documents, please contact the EIA Branch at EIAEIE@gnb.ca or (506) 444-5382 for assistance with the new online registration process. Thank you.
The following is a list of ElA project registrations and determinations for the Province of New Brunswick. To access Minister’s Decisions and any applicable conditions, please click on the link in the “Status” column for the project of interest. Registration documents are prepared by proponents and made available in the language in which they were received by the Department of Environment and Local Government.
- Project Number 1642 -
- Project Number 1623 - 1641
- Project Number 1605 - 1622
- Project Number 1574 - 1604
- Project Number 1555 - 1573
- Project Number 1535 - 1554
- Project Number 1515 - 1534
- Project Number 1489 - 1514
- Project Number 1453 - 1488
- Project Number 1425 - 1452
- Project Number 1399 - 1424
- Project Number 1375 - 1398
- Project Number 1283 - 1374
- Project Number 1247-1282
- Project Number 1192-1246
- Project Number 1141-1191
- Project Number 1107-1140
- Project Number 1028 - 1106
- Project Number 594-1027
Project Status Definitions
“Awaiting additional information” means that the Technical Review
Committee has asked the proponent to provide information, and this
information has not yet been received from the proponent.
“Determination review in progress” means that the Technical Review Committee is reviewing information provided by the proponent.
Certificate of Determination issued – A Determination Review has been completed and the Minister has determined that the project can proceed, subject to the conditions attached to the Certificate of Determination.
EIA Approval issued – A Comprehensive Review has been completed and the Lieutenant-Governor in Council has determined that the project can proceed, subject to the conditions attached to the EIA Approval.
Approval denied – The Lieutenant-Governor in Council has determined that the project cannot proceed.
Record of EIA Registrations and Determinations 1642 -
| 2025/07/14 | 1651 | WattBridge | The proposed project involves the construction of a 500 MW natural gas-fueled power generating station in the Centre Village area of the local government of Tantramar. | Westmorland | Courtney Johnson | Determination review in progress |
PROENERGY together with its subsidiary WattBridge Energy IPP Holdings LLC (WattBridge) (the
Proponent) is pleased to submit this Initial Project Description (IPD) and Environmental Impact
Assessment (EIA) Registration for the Centre Village Renewables Integration and Grid Security
Synchronous Condensing/Generation Facility Project (the Project) in accordance with the Impact
Assessment Act and the New Brunswick Clean Environment Act, respectively. This IPD has been
prepared following the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (IAAC) Guide to Preparing an Initial Project Description and a Detailed Project Description (IAAC 2024), and Schedule 1 of the Information and Management of Time Limits Regulations, including the organization of sections. Additional information has been added to conform to the requirements for a provincial EIA Registration, although it is understood that additional information will be filed with the New Brunswick Department of Environment and Local Government (NBDELG) in Q3 of 2025 as an addendum to this document.
Proponent Contact Information
Proponent: WattBridge c/o PROENERGY
Address: 2001 PROENERGY Blvd
Sedalia, MO 65301
Contact Name: Cliff Oliver
Official Title: Vice President Development
Telephone Number: (404) 314-5220
E-Mail Address: coliver@wattbridge.info
WattBridge was created to solve a generational problem
As the world transitions from carbon-emitting to renewable
energy resources, our energy experts leveraged expertise in the LM6000
platform as the ideal renewable-support technology.
In 2018, we embarked on a journey to support the Texas grid with 4,000
MW of reduced emissions, and fast-start peaking power. Today, we look to
scale our platform to the rest of the United States and beyond to close
the supply gaps associated with renewable intermittency.
WattBridge
Leadership Team
President
Mike Alvarado
25+ Years of Experience
Mike Alvarado has U.S., international, and emerging market experience with power generation assets. He led P&L improvement efforts for 25,000- and 50,000-MW generation fleets as well as M&A operations for two of the largest U.S. non-regulated generation portfolios. At WattBridge, he heads all aspects of its fast-start peaking asset portfolio, which includes development, origination, and financing. Mr. Alvarado and his team have raised more than $1.5 billion of capital over a span of 30 months through July 2022 and brought more than 2,300 MWs to advanced stages of development.
VP Development
Cliff Oliver
20+ Years of Experience
Cliff Oliver possesses power industry experience on commercial trading, asset optimization, and performance management of fossil-based assets. Since joining WattBridge in December 2018, Mr. Oliver has served as a key member of the WattBridge development team by leading and managing all aspects of development and origination. In addition, he has assisted with the financing requirements for the WattBridge portfolio in ERCOT. He has a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Georgia.
https://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/proenergy-awarded-contract-to-build-own-and-operate-fast-start-power-facility-in-new-brunswick-canada-884015970.html
PROENERGY Awarded Contract to Build, Own, and Operate Fast-Start Power Facility in New Brunswick, Canada
New 400 MW Peaking Facility Developed in Partnership with NB Power and North Shore Mi'kmaq Tribal Council (NSMTC)
SEDALIA, Mo., July 14, 2025 /CNW/ -- PROENERGY has been awarded a contract to develop, construct, own, and operate the New Brunswick Power Corporation (NB Power) Renewable Integration and Grid Security (RIGS) project in Centre Village. The facility—a 400 MW PowerFLX installation driven by eight aeroderivative turbines—will operate under a power purchase agreement with NB Power as the offtaker for 25 years.
The facility will maximize the potential of the province's renewable investment. It will provide the reliable backup support that wind and solar generation requires in addition to providing grid stability.
"At NB Power, our commitment is to provide secure and sustainable energy for New Brunswickers. Launching this generation expansion project addresses the pressing need to enhance our grid's reliability and security to meet the unprecedented growth in energy demand," said Lori Clark, President, CEO & Chief Nuclear Officer. "Partnering to secure additional electricity and capacity through this project ensures we can confidently navigate the energy transition, providing New Brunswickers with the reliable electricity they need, when they need it most."
Located in Westmorland County, New Brunswick, the facility will minimize impact on the surrounding environment due to its proximity to existing transmission and fuel infrastructure while reducing provincial reliance on oil, coal, and imported power.
"This project is an essential part of a clean, reliable, affordable power grid, and it's a great example of our approach to Indigenous-led, responsible development," says Jim Ward, General Manager of North Shore Mi'kmaq Tribal Council. "We need clean energy, and we need to keep costs down and keep the power on. We've seen in other places how too much renewable energy can cause grid failures or high costs. To avoid those issues, this load-following power plant is a perfect complement to New Brunswick wind and solar power now and in the future. PROENERGY has been a great partner on this. We welcome other developers to get in touch with us."
The project will enter commercial operations in 2028.
"Our team has a deep understanding of Eastern Canada. PROENERGY appreciates the trust placed in us by NB Power and the North Shore Mi'kmaq Tribal Council to provide the reliable fast-start power they need," says Jeff Canon, PROENERGY President and CEO.
About PROENERGY
Based in Sedalia, Missouri,
PROENERGY is a global peaking-power solutions provider with operational
experience on every continent. The company offers vertically integrated
aeroderivative power solutions, including equipment, engineering,
construction, operations, repair, maintenance, research, and true,
turnkey power generation facilities that include the complete balance of
plant. For more on PROENERGY, visit www.proenergyservices.com.
SOURCE PROENERGY
Chris Evans, VP Marketing, (660) 829-5100, cevans@proenergyservices.com
Opponents of new gas plant accuse N.B. Power of trying to evade regulatory scrutiny
N.B. Power hopes the new generating plant will be up and running in 2028
Advocates are raising concerns that N.B. Power is looking to shortcut the regulatory process and avoid public scrutiny of its proposed 400-megawatt gas plant.
"It's an attempt to evade the regulatory process and that's unacceptable," said Green Leader David Coon.
N.B. Power is required to get approval from the Energy and Utilities Board for capital projects costing more than $50 million, but are arguing that a $70-million transmission facility required for a new natural gas generating facility in the province's southeast should be excepted from that scrutiny. Normally, that would trigger a review of the entire project.
Coon said it's clear the utility doesn't believe the independent EUB would see the economic argument for it.
"It says to me they don't have much faith in the Energy and Utilities Board deciding that these expenditures would be in the economic interests of New Brunswickers given the alternatives," he said.
Green Party Leader David Coon says the move betrays N.B. Power's fear of a full-scale hearing on the project. (Silas Brown/CBC)
"The alternatives are there. I mean, places from the city of Saint John to the state of Vermont are using large battery storage systems on the scale of hundreds of megawatts in the case of Vermont to provide peak power."
N.B. Power's application makes the case that the structure of the deal to build and operate the plant and necessary infrastructure doesn't count as a traditional capital investment.
The new plant will be owned and operated by ProEnergy, which will sell the power generated back to N.B. Power. Because the plant is being built by and will be wholly owned by ProEnergy, the project doesn't require hearings and board approval.
Opponents of new gas plant say N.B. Power is trying to evade public scrutinyHowever, the project also includes a $70-million switchyard that ProEnergy has agreed to build. By law, only N.B. Power can own transmission assets in the province, so once completed, it will be sold to the utility for a dollar.
N.B. Power argues that since they aren't building it, the transfer shouldn't count as a capital project and should therefore be shielded from board review and the public hearings that come with it — even though it will show up as a $70-million asset in its capital structure, with the depreciation and liabilities that come with it.
The preliminary site layout shows where the plant's 10 turbines will be located on Route 940 in Tantramar. (ProEnergy)
A spokesperson for N.B. Power said in a statement that the application is intended to get the EUB's opinion on how to treat these types of agreements.
"This structure differs from N.B. Power building and operating a long-term asset, where we would assume all operational risks, ultimately borne by the ratepayer. This is a new type of agreement for NB Power, and we felt it was important to seek the NBEUB's opinion," Elizabeth Fraser said in an email.
Fraser added that while a full EUB review would take longer, they believe the plant could still be ready by 2028.
N.B. Power said previously that the plant is necessary to address the growing population and demand for energy in the province and to provide a backup to intermittent renewable power. The utility is also looking to add hundreds of megawatts of wind energy to its generation mix in coming years and says the plant will be a crucial part of ensuring it has the energy it needs when demand dictates.
According to environmental assessment filings, work to prepare the site is intended to start as early as next year, with the plant coming online in 2028. ProEnergy's lead for the project previously told CBC that it's expected the project could result in a 250,000-tonne reduction in N.B. Power's greenhouse gas emissions as the plant would displace more polluting sources of power.
Reduction claims need to be tested
Moe Qureshi, the director of climate change research and policy at the Conservation Council of New Brunswick, said those claims need to be tested in the EUB's public hearing process to determine if the plant, or the deal, is in the best interest of New Brunswickers.
"The EUB is the way to review that information to check if this is really the best choice for New Brunswick and, without that oversight, I think we're going to get into more problems rather than less," he said.
"What if this costs us more down the road than what we think now? And I think if the ratepayers have to pay for this, they have a right to see what's going on."
The EUB filing also provides more details about how ProEnergy will be paid for the facility. N.B. Power will pay for the fuel used to power the plant and purchase the power generated. But they will also make monthly "capacity payments" based on how much power the utility purchased versus what the facility could produce.
Brotman
Generating Station in Rosharon, Texas, has similar components and
layout as the proposed project that ProEnergy will build in Tantramar. (ProEnergy)
Fraser said payments will be based on a "'pay for performance' model, meaning we are only subject to payments when the facility meets a high level of availability."
N.B. Power's EUB filing states they expect the capacity payments will eclipse $50 million over the 25-year lifespan of the agreement.
A pre-hearing conference is scheduled for Aug. 12, with hearing dates set for the beginning of September.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
John MacIsaac has problems holding a job. But he doesn’t have any problem getting paid.
John MacIsaac Credit: Nalcor via CBC
The Houston government has appointed two experienced leaders in the energy field to advise it on how to green the grid and transition the province away from coal.
Coal still generates more than 40% of our electricity.
Nova Scotia Power is the largest emitter of greenhouse gases and the legislated deadline to close four coal plants is only seven years away.
The two-person “Clean Electricity Solutions Task Force” will be chaired by Alison Scott, a lawyer with 30 years experience in government. Scott was appointed Nova Scotia’s deputy minister of energy in 2004 by then Premier John Hamm. She held senior roles in that department for 13 years and later served as a director of the National Energy Board, today known as the Canada Energy Regulator.
The second member of task force is John MacIsaac. MacIsaac is an engineer. He was the president of Newfoundland & Labrador Hydro in 2015-2016. That utility created Nalcor Energy to manage the construction of the Muskrat Falls megaproject and related transmission infrastructure.
From 2016-2019, MacIsaac was Nalcor’s executive vice-president of power supply. His responsibilities included all Labrador transmission assets, including the Labrador Island Link, which delivers power from Muskrat Falls to Newfoundland.
Ongoing technical problems with the software that handles the flow of electricity over the Labrador Island Link has led to years of delay for Nova Scotians receiving the contracted amount of renewable hydro.
In February 2019, MacIsaac was let go without cause from Nalcor and received $500,000 severance during a corporate shake-up.
In November 2019, MacIsaac took a job as executive director of corporate services with the Halifax Regional Municipality (circa $250,000 a year) but left after only three months. As Zane Woodford reported in August 2020, “MacIsaac received $54,597.68 in salary and $256,262.40 in other benefits, in this case meaning severance pay. MacIsaac was apparently fired in February after just a few months on the job. Chief administrative officer Jacques Dubé hired him in November 2019.”
The Examiner emailed the Premier’s Office and the Department of Natural Resources to question why an executive once responsible for the flawed Labrador Island Link that has delayed environmental cleanup and increased fuel costs in Nova Scotia has now been given a job as a renewable energy advisor.
Here is that question and the response received from Adele Poirier, a senior communications advisor and spokesperson for the Department of Natural Resources & Renewables:
Jennifer Henderson: Please explain what makes Mr. MacIsaac a good choice for this assignment considering the problems Nova Scotia has experienced resulting from the Labrador Island Link.
Adele Poirier: Mr. MacIsaac’s experience is in a variety of senior roles in the energy utility sector in Atlantic Canada, as well as working for major companies such as McCain Foods and Michelin.
No mention of Nalcor.
Both John MacIsaac and Scott will be paid at a rate of $2,000 a day. Their final report and recommendations to government are due “early in 2024” according to a news release. The release provides these additional details about their mandate.
The task force will:
• examine electricity infrastructure needs for reliability, capacity and storage to meet climate change goals
• examine connections to other essential services such as telecommunications
• review the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board Act in terms of electricity generation, transmission, and rates
• engage subject matter experts, the Mi’kmaq and other interested Nova Scotians
The Minister of Natural Resources and Renewables, Tory Rushton, is quoted in the news release saying, “I look forward to the insight and recommendations that the task force will bring.”
The release also includes this quote from task force chair Alison Scott:
Nova Scotia is undergoing its biggest energy transformation in a century. The Clean Electricity Solutions Task Force will thoughtfully and methodically gather as much information as possible to help government make evidence-based decisions regarding modernizing the generation, transmission and distribution of electricity in Nova Scotia.
And the following quote from John MacIsaac:
This task force presents a fresh set of eyes, supported by input from energy and environmental stakeholders, Indigenous people and subject matter experts, to make recommendations to government on solutions for clean electricity.
These appointments suggest the government knows it’s in trouble when it comes to finding a solution to the long-standing problem of finding enough renewable energy sources to transition off coal. Its relationship with Nova Scotia Power has deteriorated. Muskrat Falls has been a disappointment in the short-term and the Atlantic Loop is not a silver bullet, either.
The task force of two faces some heavy lifting.
With files from Zane Woodford.
Jennifer Henderson is a freelance journalist and retired CBC News reporter. Former manager gets another big severance payout
Second on the sunshine list is John MacIsaac, the city’s former director of corporate services. MacIsaac received $54,597.68 in salary and $256,262.40 in other benefits, in this case meaning severance pay.
MacIsaac was apparently fired in February after just a few months on the job. Chief administrative officer Jacques Dubé hired him in November 2019.
He was the second high-profile staffer to be let go early this year, following municipal clerk Kevin Arjoon in January (Arjoon received total compensation of $169,464.99, including what looks like $70,505.11 in severance).
This is the second time MacIsaac has secured a big severance payment in about a year. In February 2019, he received an estimated $500,000 in severance after leaving Nalcor, Newfoundland and Labrador’s Crown energy corporation, where he was the vice president for Muskrat Falls transmission.
Shakeup at Nalcor, as VP for Muskrat Falls transmission departs
Premier declines to get into details of 'human resources issue' at Crown corporation
There's been a shakeup in the top management ranks at Nalcor Energy.
John MacIsaac — the top official in charge of getting Muskrat Falls power from Labrador to Newfoundland — has departed the Crown corporation.
MacIsaac had been with Nalcor for eight years. He was appointed president of Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro in late 2015.
In mid-2016, Nalcor CEO Stan Marshall reorganized the management ranks of the Crown energy corporation, and MacIsaac was shifted into a new role.
The generation and transmission aspects of Muskrat Falls were split into separate components.
MacIsaac got the job of executive vice-president of power supply, to focus on the completion and commissioning of the Labrador transmission assets, the Strait of Belle Isle marine cable crossing, and the Labrador-Island Transmission Link.
He also was given responsibility for the integration of Muskrat Falls into the current electricity system.
In a press release issued Friday, Nalcor CEO Stan Marshall thanked MacIsaac for his service and wished him "all the best in his future endeavours."
That press release did not quote MacIsaac himself, and Nalcor officials told CBC News that Marshall is not doing interviews.
Some
3,200 transmission towers like this one were erected as part of the
$3.4 billion Labrador-Island Link from Muskrat Falls to Soldiers Pond.
The top executive in charge of transmission work has departed that job,
Nalcor Energy announced Friday. (Nalcor Energy)
"The changes being made today will allow us to continue to focus on the successful completion of the Muskrat Falls Project; to prepare the provincial electricity system for integration of Muskrat Falls power; and to have clear focus on our regulated business (Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro) while continuing our commitment to providing safe, reliable electricity to our customers," Marshall said in a prepared statement.
Premier defers to Nalcor on 'human resources' decision
Premier Dwight Ball deferred to Nalcor when asked about the shakeup Friday afternoon, calling it a "human resources issue" at the Crown energy corporation and declining to get into the circumstances of MacIsaac's departure.
"These are the details that I would leave to management; the human resources team at Nalcor to actually expand on that," Ball told reporters after a cabinet retreat in Corner Brook.
"This is not something we are involved in at all, myself or the minister. These are the decisions that are made at Nalcor."
MacIsaac will be replaced by Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro president Jim Haynes.
This is not something we are involved in at all, myself or the minister. These are the decisions that are made at Nalcor.
- Premier Dwight Ball
Haynes came out of retirement to take on that job at Hydro in 2016.
The Nalcor press release announcing the leadership changes noted that integration of the Muskrat Falls system into the electricity grid is "complex, technical work," and lauded Haynes's "wealth of technical knowledge." Haynes began working at Hydro in 1977.
Jennifer Williams now takes over as president of Hydro.
Williams becomes the provincial utility company's first-ever female president. She had been serving as vice-president of production with Hydro since 2016.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Energy Capital Partners (ECP) Acquires Majority Interest in PROENERGY
SUMMIT, N.J. & SEDALIA, Mo., September 05, 2024--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Energy Capital Partners ("ECP") has acquired a majority interest in PROENERGY Holdings ("PROENERGY"), a vertically integrated aeroderivative gas turbine platform with a 2.4 GW fleet of contracted peakers in Texas, from affiliates of Eos Partners and ACON Investments. Financial terms were not disclosed.
In addition to its 2.4 GW portfolio of operating power plants, PROENERGY provides repair and maintenance services for the global GE LM6000 and LM2500 turbine fleet (over 3,000 installed units). Furthermore, PROENERGY operates as an original equipment manufacturer and turnkey engineering, procurement and construction business delivering firm gas power generation solutions to utility customers. PROENERGY benefits directly from electricity demand growth and is positioned to capitalize on the need for new aeroderivative turbines as the flexible, peaking technology best suited to address growing intermittency issues across U.S. power markets.
Together with ECP, PROENERGY will expand its platform and pipeline, pursue accretive growth opportunities and build on its established reputation for best-in-class performance, industry-leading turnaround times, and lower customer costs. PROENERGY will continue to be led by its deeply experienced executive team, including Founder, President and Chief Executive Officer Jeff Canon, a pioneer in the turbine industry with over 40 years of experience.
"We are thrilled to partner with, and invest alongside, Jeff Canon and the PROENERGY team," said Andrew Gilbert, Partner at ECP. "Several of our portfolio companies are satisfied repeat customers and we have seen firsthand the value of the PROENERGY platform and its talented team. We look forward to helping PROENERGY grow and achieve its ambitious goals."
Tyler Kopp, Principal at ECP, added, "PROENERGY’s integrated and diversified platform, advanced technical capabilities and experienced team have allowed the company to capture significant market share. The power sector’s reliability and flexibility needs are growing and changing very quickly. PROENERGY is uniquely positioned to meet this challenge."
"Our core values, culture, and commitment to safety remain unchanged," says Jeff Canon, PROENERGY President and CEO. "ECP’s extensive experience in the energy sector will be a tremendous asset. Together, we are dedicated to driving growth, fostering innovation, advancing sustainability, and delivering unparalleled value to our industry."
Latham & Watkins LLP acted as legal advisor to ECP on the transaction. Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP acted as legal advisor to PROENERGY. Winston & Strawn LLP acted as legal advisor to PROENERGY, Eos Partners and ACON Investments. PEI Global Partners LLC acted as financial advisor.
About ECP
Energy
Capital Partners (ECP), founded in 2005, is a leading equity and credit
investor across energy transition, electrification and decarbonization
infrastructure assets. The ECP team, comprised of 90 people with 800
years of collective industry experience, deep expertise and extensive
relationships, has consummated more than 100 equity (representing nearly
$60 billion of enterprise value) and over 20 credit transactions since
inception. For more information, visit www.ecpgp.com.
About PROENERGY
Based
in Sedalia, Missouri, PROENERGY is a global dispatchable-power
solutions provider with operational experience on every continent. The
company offers vertically integrated aeroderivative power services,
including engineering, construction, operations, manufacturing, repair,
maintenance, research, and true, turnkey power generation facilities
that include the complete balance of plant. For more on PROENERGY, visit
www.proenergyservices.com.
View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240905295122/en/
Contacts
ECP
FGS Global
Nick Rust / Akash Lodh
ECP@fgsglobal.com
PROENERGY
Chris Evans
(660) 829-5100
cevans@proenergyservices.com
Energy Capital Partners Management, LP (ECP) is an American investment firm headquartered in Summit, New Jersey. It focuses on investments in the energy sector. The firm has additional offices in New York City, Houston, San Diego, Fort Lauderdale and Seoul.
In August 2024, ECP merged with Bridgepoint Group to form a private assets investment platform.
Background
ECP was founded in April 2005 by Doug Kimmelman, Thomas Lane and Scott Helm. The three were previously senior executives at Goldman Sachs in its investment banking division. ECP focuses in investments in power generation, renewable energy and energy storage assets. It was originally based in Short Hills, New Jersey and later moved its headquarters to Summit.[2][3][4][5]
History
In January 2007, ECP raised $2.25 billion for its debut fund, Energy Capital Partners I. At the time it was one of the largest debut funds ever raised.[3]
In September 2009, ECP formed Summit Midstream Partners, a platform company to invest in North American gas infrastructure. In September 2012, Summit Midstream Partners held an initial public offering on the New York Stock Exchange and in September 2015, ECP was seeking buyers for its ownership stake. Later on ECP exited its ownership of Summit Midstream Partners.[6][7][8][9]
In July 2011, it was reported that The Carlyle Group was in talks to acquire ECP. It came as a surprise, due to Carlyle's longstanding relationship with Riverstone Holdings where the two had worked on multiple deals together. However, in the end the deal did not proceed.[10]
In August 2017, Dyal Capital acquired a minority interest of less than 20% in ECP for below $500 million. The transaction valued ECP at less than $2.5 billion at the time. The cash injection gave ECP a financial cushion for more volatile periods that may not be favorable to fundraising. Some of it was used to pay retention bonuses to its employees as well as buying out the ownership equity of Lane.[4][5]
In November 2022, it was reported that Bridgepoint Group was in talks to acquire ECP for $1 billion. It was speculated that the acquisition would allow ECP to establish a presence in Europe.[5][11] On September 6, 2023, it was announced that both sides agreed to the deal involving cash and stock which would close within four to six months.[12][13] In August 2024, ECP merged with Bridgepoint Group to form a private assets investment platform.[14]
In June 2023, ECP established ECP ForeStar, a $2.5 billion credit strategy that focuses on climate change and sustainability. ECP recruited former leaders of Global Infrastructure Partners' credit business to lead the venture.[15]
In October 2024, ECP and Kohlberg Kravis Roberts formed a partnership to invest a combined $50 billion in data center and power generation projects to support the development of artificial intelligence.[16] ECP formed a further $25 billion partnership with ADQ in March 2025 to invest in U.S. power generation and energy infrastructure for data centers and AI projects. The partnership aims to provide 25GW of new power capacity.[17]
Acquisitions
In 2007, ECP acquired a small stake in Energy Future Holdings as part of an investor consortium buyout led by Kohlberg Kravis Roberts and TPG Inc. for $44 billion.[10] As of December 2022, it remained the largest leveraged buyout in history.[18]
In 2016, ECP invested in Sunnova Energy Corp.[19]
In August 2017, ECP led an investor consortium that included Access Industries and CPP Investment Board to acquire Calpine and take it private for $5.6 billion.[5][20] In January 2025, ECP announced the sale of Calpine to Constellation Energy for $26.6 billion, the largest private equity exit in the power and utility sector in two decades.[21]
In 2022, ECP bought the UK waste management firm Biffa for $1.4 billion. The transaction was completed in January 2023 and Biffa was delisted from the London Stock Exchange.[11][22][23]
In January 2023, it was reported that ECP was working with Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Bank to establish a Japan decarbonization fund.[24]
In May 2024, ECP finalized the acquisition of Atlantica Sustainable Infrastructure, which owns renewable energy projects worldwide. The $2.56 billion transaction helped Algonquin Power and Utilities reduce debt and revamp its capital structure.[25]
In December 2024, Orsted divested its 50% equity stake in three US projects to ECP.[26]
Regulatory fines
In June 2022, ECP agreed to pay a $1 million fine to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission for allegedly requiring some investors to pay more than their share of fund expenses without getting their approval back in 2017. ECP had also repaid investors more than $3.3 million.[27]
One World Trade Center
Suite 58A
New York City, New York 10007
11988 El Camino Real
Suite 620
San Diego, California 92130
Combined platform creates $72B global alternative asset manager
On August 20th, 2024, ECP combined with Bridgepoint Group plc, creating one of the world's leading quoted private asset growth investors, a combined platform across North American and Europe focused on the middle market, spanning private equity, infrastructure, and credit.
Bridgepoint Group is one of the world's leading quoted private asset growth investors, specialising in private equity, infrastructure and private credit.
With over $86 billion of assets under management and a strong local presence in Europe, North America and Asia, we combine global scale with local market insight and sector expertise, consistently delivering strong returns through cycles.
Bridgepoint Advisers Limited, a subsidiary of Bridgepoint Group plc, is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Connecting ideas, capital and great businesses
Bridgepoint's private equity business focuses on investing in middle-market businesses via three distinct fund strategies:
- Mid-market, implemented via our flagship fund, Bridgepoint Europe, which focuses on investing in market-leading businesses typically valued at more than €300 million;
- Lower mid-market, implemented via Bridgepoint Development Capital, which focuses on investing in companies that are typically valued between €100 million and €300 million;
- Small Cap, implemented via Bridgepoint Growth, which focuses on companies using digital technologies to achieve transformational growth in their end-markets and are typically seeking equity investment of up to €100 million.
Credit, implemented via Bridgepoint Credit, is our
private credit platform that invests across the capital structure and
risk-reward spectrum through three complementary strategies:
- Syndicated Debt, which targets investments in high-quality companies across the broadly syndicated loan and high-yield markets;
- Direct Lending, which covers growth capital, acquisitions and refinancings; and
- Credit Opportunities, which provides credit for complex situations and creative solutions.
Our infrastructure strategy is implemented through ECP, one of the largest private infrastructure managers focused on North American, middle-market energy transition opportunities.
ECP's flagship infrastructure funds focus on making value-add, predominantly control investments across electricity and sustainability infrastructure. These sectors include opportunities within wind, solar, storage, natural gas power generation carbon capture, renewable fuels, energy efficiency, digital, hydrogen, recycling waste management, beneficial re-use and waste-to-energy.
New York
One World Trade Center
Suite 58A
New York, NY 10007
USA
+1-212-266-2911 (Bridgepoint)
+1-212-266-2900 (ECP)
https://www.bridgepointgroup.com/about-us/our-people/murray-karp
Murray Karp
ECP Managing Partner/ECP COO
Murray is a Managing Partner and Chief Operating Officer at ECP. He oversees finance and administration, financial reporting, human resources and information technology. He is a member of ECP’s Risk Committee, an observer on the Valuation Committee and a member of Bridgepoint’s Group Operating Committee.
Prior to joining ECP in 2005, Murray was the Chief Financial Officer of AEA Investors LLC, served as the Controller of Accordia, as the Assistant Controller of Caxton Corporation, and he spent over 10 years at Coopers & Lybrand LLP.
Murray received a B.S. in Accounting from the Rutgers University School of Business and is a Certified Public Accountant.
https://www.ecpgp.com/about/our-team/tyler-kopp
Tyler Kopp
Principal
Mr. Kopp is a Principal at ECP. He is involved in all areas of the Firm’s investment activities, with particular emphasis on fossil and renewable power generation and environmental infrastructure. He is on ECP’s Valuation, and ESG Committees, and is an observer of on the Risk Committee. Mr. Kopp currently serves on the boards of ProEnergy, Symmetry Energy Solutions, Liberty Tire, and Biffa. He previously served on the board of Terra-Gen, LLC., prior to its realization.
Prior to joining ECP in 2014, Mr. Kopp was an Analyst in the Power & Utilities Investment Banking Group at Bank of America Merrill Lynch.
Mr. Kopp received a B.S. in Engineering Science from Vanderbilt University.
Boards
CurrentBiffa
Liberty Tire
ProEnergy
Symmetry Energy Solutions
Andrew Gilbert
Partner
Mr. Gilbert is a Partner at ECP. He is involved in all areas of the firm’s investment activities, with particular emphasis on fossil and renewable power generation and environmental services. He co-chairs ECP’s Risk and Portfolio Company Value Creation Committees. He is also a member of ECP’s Partnership, Management and Investment Committees. Mr. Gilbert serves on the boards of ProEnergy, Atlantica, Calpine Corp., Convergent, Symmetry Energy Solutions, New Leaf, Biffa, and Anza Renewable Energy. He played a critical role in our transaction with Dynegy Inc. and was instrumental in our management of EquiPower Resources Corp., Brayton Point Power, LLC, Broad River Power Holdings, LLC and Odessa Power Holdings, LLC. Previously, he also served on the boards of Heartland Generation, Wheelabrator Technologies, Inc, and Triton Power Partners LP, prior to its realization.
Prior to joining ECP in 2010, Mr. Gilbert was part of Citigroup’s Global Energy Investment Banking Group, where he focused on the midstream sector.
Mr. Gilbert received a B.S. in Finance and Economics from New York University Stern School of Business and is a CFA Charterholder.
Boards
Current
Atlantica
Anza Renewable Energy
Biffa
Calpine
Convergent
New Leaf Energy
Pro Energy
Symmetry Energy Solutions
Matt Himler
Principal
Mr. Himler is a Principal at ECP. He is involved in all areas of the Firm’s investment activities, with a particular focus on renewable and digital infrastructure. He played a critical role in acquiring over two gigawatts of renewable assets from Orsted, and ECP’s strategic partnership with KKR to support AI growth through investments in data centers and power generation.
Prior to joining ECP in 2012, Mr. Himler was an Analyst in the Power, Energy & Infrastructure Investment Banking Group at Lazard Frères & Co.
Mr. Himler received a B.A. in Economics and Political Science from Amherst College.
Francesco Ciabatti
Principal
Mr. Ciabatti is a Principal at ECP. He is involved in all areas of the Firm’s investment activities, with particular emphasis on the renewable fuels, carbon capture and environmental infrastructure sectors, as well as environmental and industrial services, and is co-chair of the ESG Committee. He serves on the boards of Braya Renewable Fuels, US Development Group, Restaurant Technologies, and Metrus Energy. Previously, he served on the boards of Summit Midstream Partners, L.P and ADA Carbon Solutions, and prior to its realization, Transit Energy Group.
Prior to joining ECP in 2013, Mr. Ciabatti was an Analyst in the Natural Resources Investment Banking Group at Barclays.
Mr. Ciabatti received a B.A. in Economics and Political Science from Yale University.
Boards
Current
Braya Renewable Fuels
Metrus Energy
Restaurant Technologies, Inc
US Development Group
Murray Karp
Managing Partner & COO
Mr. Karp is a Managing Partner and Chief Operating Officer at ECP. He oversees finance and administration, financial reporting, human resources and information technology. Mr. Karp is also a member of ECP’s Risk Committee and Valuation Committee.
Prior to joining ECP in 2005, Mr. Karp was the Chief Financial Officer of AEA Investors LLC. Prior to that, Mr. Karp served as the Controller of Accordia, a start-up e-commerce consulting, technology and equity partnership company. Before his time at Accordia, Mr. Karp served as the Assistant Controller of Caxton Corporation and spent over 10 years at Coopers & Lybrand LLP.
Mr. Karp received a B.S. in Accounting from the Rutgers University School of Business and is a Certified Public Accountant (inactive).
Chris Leininger
Partner & Chief Investment Counsel
Mr. Leininger is a Partner and Chief Investment Counsel at ECP. He is a member of ECP’s Portfolio Company Value Creation, and Compliance Committees, as well as is an observer on the Valuation Committee. Mr. Leininger serves on the boards of Gopher Resource, Convergent, Liberty Recycling LP, Symmetry Energy Solutions. Previously, he served on the board of PLH Group, Inc., Wheelabrator Technologies Inc., NESCO Holdings, Inc. (now known as Custom Truck One Source) and ProPetro Holdings Corp., Summit Midstream Partners, L.P., and Sunnova Energy Corp. Prior to realization, he served on the boards of Heartland Generation, Terra-Gen, LLC., EnergySolutions, Inc., and Triton Power Partners LP.
Prior to joining ECP in 2006, Mr. Leininger was an Associate at the law firm of Latham & Watkins LLP and a member of its Finance department. Mr. Leininger represented both lenders and borrowers in numerous financing, acquisition and development transactions.
Mr. Leininger received a B.A. in History and Political Science from the University of San Diego and a J.D. from the University of Virginia School of Law.
Jennifer Gray
Partner, General Counsel & Chief Compliance Officer
Ms. Gray is a Partner, General Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer at ECP. She chairs the Compliance Committee, co-chairs the ESG Committee, is a member of the Risk Committee, and serves as an observer on ECP’s Valuation Committee. Ms. Gray previously served on the boards of Ramaco Resources and NESCO Holdings, Inc. (now known as Custom Truck One Source).
Prior to joining ECP in 2008, Ms. Gray was an Associate at the law firm of Latham & Watkins LLP. Ms. Gray represented both lenders and borrowers in several joint venture, financing, acquisition and development transactions.
Ms. Gray received her B.S. in International Business and J.D. from Pepperdine University.
Kelly Self
Managing Director & Senior Counsel
Ms. Self is Managing Director and Senior Counsel at ECP. She currently serves on the boards of Atlantica, Reflectance Energy, LP, Pivot Energy, and New Leaf Energy. Previously, she served on the board of Transit Energy Group.
Prior to joining ECP in 2019, Ms. Self was counsel at the law firm of Latham & Watkins LLP and a member of the Project Development and Finance Group, where her practice focused on the representation of both lender and sponsor clients in connection with development, acquisition and financing of energy and infrastructure projects.
Ms. Self received a B.A. in Psychology and Economics from Dartmouth College and a J.D. from Duke University School of Law.
Boards
Current
Atlantica
New Leaf Energy
Pivot Energy
Reflectance
Hank Goldberg
Counsel
Hank J. Goldberg is a Counsel at ECP. Prior to joining ECP in 2024, Hank was an associate at the law firms of Kirkland & Ellis LLP and Ropes & Gray LLP, as a member of the Investment Funds Group, where his practice focused on structuring, negotiating, forming and operating private investment funds and their management companies, including buyout funds, growth equity funds, infrastructure funds, continuation funds, co-investment funds, special purpose vehicles and other private investment vehicles.
Hank received his B.A. in History and Political Science from the University of Michigan and J.D. from Washington University in St. Louis School of Law.
Lori Nyhuis
Senior Managing Director – Head of Tax
Ms. Nyhuis is a Senior Managing Director – Head of Tax at ECP. Prior to joining ECP in 2017, Ms. Nyhuis was a Senior Manager at Deloitte Tax LLP, where she covered the ECP account since 2007.
Ms. Nyhuis received a B.B.A in Public Accounting from Pace University and a M.S. in Taxation from Seton Hall University. She is a Certified Public Accountant.
To contact Nick Rust send an email to nickrust@gmail.com or nick@fgsglobal.com. If you want to call Nick Rust try calling on 9174390307.
https://fgsglobal.com/people/nick-rust
Nick Rust
Director
Life at FGS Global
Advises energy, power, and financial sponsors on a variety of complex transactions and financial situations, including mergers and acquisitions, secondary share sales, and recapitalizations. He also helps private funds clients with strategic media relations and crisis preparedness and response.
Life Pre-FGS Global
Worked at Prosek Partners, supporting private capital investment firms and portfolio companies on positioning and executive thought leadership and specializing in helping private credit managers to proactively build and manage their brands.
Life Beyond FGS Global
When not in the office, Nick enjoys playing golf, traveling internationally with his family, and spending time with his two daughters.
Nick is a Director in the Houston office and works with a wide variety of publicly traded and late-stage private companies across highly regulated industries, including financial services, energy infrastructure, and healthcare. He also counsels private fund managers and portfolio companies on firm and fund launches, strategic and financial M&A transactions, reputation management, crisis preparedness and response and ongoing profile-raising matters.
Recent assignments include Benefit Street Partners on executive visibility and fund positioning in the private credit and commercial real estate debt space; Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings on its inaugural Investor Day as an independent public company; Energy Capital Partners on its transaction with Bridgepoint plc; Nature Energy Biogas A/S on its successful sale to a subsidiary of Shell plc for nearly USD$2 billion; Ortho Clinical Diagnostics on its transaction with Quidel Corporation; Pioneer on its $59.5 billion sale to ExxonMobil and Topspin Consumer Partners on positioning and media relations.
Previously, Nick worked at the independent agency Prosek Partners in New York, where he primarily advised private capital investment firms and portfolio companies on media positioning and thought leadership engagements in support of capital formation priorities. He began his career working at an investor relations agency KCSA Strategic Communications.
Nick holds a BA in Corporate Communications from Elon University.
https://www.proenergyservices.com/about-us/people/
Jeff Canon
President & CEO
Scott Blair
General Counsel and Chief Legal Officer
Scott Blair has practiced law by working in-house with industrial and energy businesses in global manufacturing, sales, projects, and services for more than 30 years, including 10 years at GE Power & Water. His background involves working closely with lines of business and corporate functions to navigate legal issues. He has also helped business teams execute strategic plans to grow sales, manage risks, and preserve profit margins. Scott earned his bachelor’s and law degrees from the University of Missouri in Columbia, MO.
Scott A. Dieball
Counsel & Vice President
As Counsel & Vice President, Scott Dieball has more than 30 years of business and commercial experience in the U.S. and international power, construction, and energy sectors. Scott is responsible for legal oversight and compliance on all projects and company operations. Scott previously held the position of Assistant General Counsel at Kinder Morgan and at Enron Corp. in their Houston offices, while concentrating on project development, construction, and operations in the power, pipeline, and energy sectors. For many years, he also served as Senior and Division Counsel for General Electric and Stewart & Stevenson Services with a focus on business lines involved in gas turbine equipment packaging, aftermarket and field services, and third-party O&M services.
Roland Rudd
Global co-chair
Life at FGS Global
Roland provides personal counsel to board members and senior executives at the most crucial moments for their companies.
Life Pre-FGS Global
Before founding Finsbury worked as a political and financial journalist, primarily at the Financial Times.
Life Beyond FGS Global
Loves art, opera, food, good company and his family. Can be found combining all.
Roland Rudd is a founder and Chair of FGS Global, the leading stakeholder advisory group created through the combination of Finsbury, Hering Schuppener, Glover Park Group and Sard Verbinnen. He provides personal counsel to board members and senior executives at the most critical moments for their companies. Prior to founding the strategic communications company Finsbury in 1994, he worked as a political and financial journalist at the Financial Times and The Times.
Roland is also the Chair of Tate, which he has been involved with for the past 25 years, first serving as a Patron, Chair of the Business Advisory Group and then as Deputy Chair. He has also been a Trustee and fundraiser for the Royal Opera House and is currently a Trustee of the Bayreuth Festival, as well as a patron of Grange Park Opera and the Holburne Museum.
He is currently Chair of the Governors for Millfield School, a Trustee at Speakers for Schools, an ambassador for Made by Dyslexia and an Honorary Fellow at the Centre for Corporate Reputation, Regents College, Oxford University. He also serves as a Specially Appointed Commissioner at the Royal Hospital Chelsea and is an Ambassador for the Alzheimer’s Society.
https://fgsglobal.com/people/james-murgatroyd
James Murgatroyd
Chair, UK, Middle East and Asia
Life at FGS Global
Chairs the UK, Middle East & Asia region and advises a range of major clients. Co-leads the global Transactions & Financial Communications team.
Life Pre-FGS Global
Started his career as a Eurocommercial Paper salesman at RBC before joining the investment banking team at Dean Witter.
Life Beyond FGS Global
Weekends consist of running by the river and watching football.
James Murgatroyd joined FGS Global as a partner in 1996. Based in London, he is now Chair of the UK, Middle East & Asia region and sits on the Global Partnership Board.
He has more than 30 years experience in financial communications and reputation management and advises a range of major UK and international clients.
James co-leads the global Transactions & Financial Communications team. He has handled a number of contested transactions, flotations and other high-profile communications issues. These include Flutter Entertainment's combination with The Stars Group, Takeda's acquisition of Shire, Worldpay's merger with Vantiv, Shell's purchase of BG Group and SAB Miller's sale to AB InBev.
Having started his career as a Eurocommercial Paper salesman at RBC, James joined the investment banking team at Dean Witter in 1988, where he qualified as a registered securities representative in both the UK and US. He has an honours degree in economics and politics.
https://fgsglobal.com/people/michael-feldman
Michael Feldman
Partner, co-chairman, north america
Life at FGS Global
Currently serving as North American Co-Chairman of the global firm. Directs communications strategy for a range of corporations, non-profits, advocacy organizations and individuals.
Life Pre-FGS Global
Senior Adviser to the Vice President, a liaison between the Clinton-Gore White House and the U.S. Congress. Co-Founder of The Glover Park Group.
Life Beyond FGS Global
Savannah’s husband, Vale and Charley’s dad, frustrated creative and recovering political hack.
Michael Feldman has more than three decades of experience in politics, policy, strategic communications, and as an advisor to decision-makers, corporations, advocacy organizations, non-profits, and high-profile individuals.
Michael began his career in politics and government. Over the course of eight years in the Clinton-Gore White House, Michael served in various leadership roles on behalf of Vice President Gore, including senior advisor and traveling chief of staff. In this capacity, he managed the Vice President’s staff and implemented message and strategy throughout the 2000 campaign cycle. Michael also served as one of the Clinton administration’s chief liaisons to the United States Congress, providing advice and strategic counsel to forward the President’s legislative agenda.
Prior to joining the Clinton-Gore campaign in 1992, Michael worked for the Senate Democratic Leadership as a legislative analyst in the Democratic Policy Committee and as a member of the Democratic floor staff for the Senate Majority Leader. In 1991, Michael worked on the special election campaign of Senator Harris Wofford of Pennsylvania.
In 2001 Michael helped found The Glover Park Group, a public affairs firm based in Washington D.C. Michael helped lead and grow the firm from a start-up to one the leading strategic communications firms in the country.
At FGS Global, Michael serves as a partner and North American co-chairman where he continues to lead major client accounts and the firm’s business and growth strategy.
Michael graduated with honors from Tufts University and resides in New York City with his wife and two children.
https://fgsglobal.com/people/george-sard
George Sard
Co-Chairman
Life at FGS Global
One of three Global Co-Chairmen of the Board. Primary focus is on advising clients on mission-critical issues and developing new business.
Life Pre-FGS Global
Co-founded predecessor firm Sard Verbinnen & Co. in 1992 and served as Chairman and co-CEO until the firm merged with Finsbury Glover Hering in 2021.
Life Beyond FGS Global
An avid (but not very good) tennis player, an active theatergoer, and a loyal New York Yankees and Giants fan.
For over 30 years, George has represented Fortune 500 companies and private firms in many industries on long-term investor and media positioning programs and in high-profile crises and special situations. These include mergers and acquisitions, IPOs, restructurings, earnings issues, high-level executive changes, and sensitive legal and regulatory matters.
Notable engagements include:
Cleveland-Cliffs on its ongoing effort to acquire U.S. Steel
TEGNA on its failed sale after two successful proxy defenses
CoreLogic on its sale to private equity after bearhug by activist
Tiffany on its acquisition by LVMH
T-Mobile on its acquisition of Sprint
21st Century Fox on its acquisition by Disney
Qualcomm on its proposed acquisition of NXP and defense against a hostile takeover by Broadcom
Board of Wells Fargo on independent investigation of retail sales practices
Starwood Hotels & Resorts on contested acquisition by Marriott
The Special Committee of the Dell Computer Board on contested take-private transaction
Martha Stewart on her defense against criminal charges
Bear Stearns, Lehman Brothers, AIG, and Freddie Mac during the financial crisis of 2008
Paul Verbinnen
Partner, Co-Chairman of North America
Contact Info
Life at FGS Global
As Co-chair of North America, works with a wide range of clients on complex matters, M&A, crisis and special situations. Assists in developing firm strategy.
Life Pre-FGS Global
As Co-founder and Co-ceo of Sard Verbinnen & Co. (SVC), helped build the company into a global leader in M&A and crisis management.
Life Beyond FGS Global
A member of CFR and AEI, he is also co-author of "Collaborative Crisis Management; Prepare, Execute, Recover, Repeat," published by the University of Chicago Press in the fall of 2022.
Paul Verbinnen is actively involved with clients including public corporations, private companies, K-12 and collegiate institutions and high-profile individuals, advising on M&A, proxy fights, defensive planning, special situations and crises, IPOs, executive transitions, restructurings, investor relations and corporate positioning programs. He frequently works with companies and boards on scenario planning and preparedness.
His prior firm (SVC) led the North American Mergermarket league tables for more than 25 years and was ranked #1 globally for five years. The Company was designated by Chambers & Partners as a Band 1 firm for crisis and risk management, and Band 1 for litigation support. In 2013 Bloomberg called SVC, "Wall Street's go to crisis firm."
Before SVC, Paul was executive vice president, international for The Ogilvy Public Relations Group, splitting his time between London and New York. From 1984 through 1988, he was head of Ogilvy's Hong Kong public relations office and, from 1986-88 he was regional director for Asia/ Pacific. Prior to joining Ogilvy in New York, he was a co-founder of a sports marketing company that worked with professional and Olympic athletes.
Paul has political science degree from Syracuse University, is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), and a National Council member of American Enterprise Institute (AEI). He is a co-author (along with Thomas A. Cole, chair emeritus of Sidley's executive committee) of "Collaborative Crisis Management; Prepare, Execute, Recover, Repeat," published by the University of Chicago Press in the fall of 2022.
https://fgsglobal.com/people/paul-kranhold
Paul Kranhold
Co-Chair, North America
Life at FGS Global
Communications strategist and advisor to tech companies, investment funds, entrepreneurs and high-profile individuals facing complex financial, regulatory, and legal matters. Started the firm's San Francisco and Los Angeles offices.
Life Pre-FGS Global
A former client, he was introduced to the firm in a complex transaction that resulted in the sale of AT&T to SBC Communications. Started work life in national and state political campaigns that resulted in 10 years in public service.
Life Beyond FGS Global
Outdoorsman and fisherman who can usually be found in the mountains on the western side of the U.S. in free time.
Paul is a Partner in the San Francisco office where he manages the firm's west coast operations. In his 20 years with the firm, Paul has advised a number of clients on high profile investments, hostile and friendly transactions, litigation matters, government investigations, management changes, and other special situations.
Representative engagements include the successful shareholder vote at Tesla to reinstate the CEO compensation plan, the IPO of Arm, the merger of Sprint and T-Mobile; the PG&E restructuring, the acquisition of the Brooklyn Nets by Joe Tsai; the sale of VMWare to Broadcom; successfully defending Qualcomm on its defense against an unsolicited takeover proposal and helping Didi with its acquisition of UberChina. He advised Netflix on its relations with activist investor Carl Icahn and Tesla with its acquisition of SolarCity.
Before joining the firm, Paul was Vice President of Corporate Communications at AT&T. He began his career on the presidential campaign of George H.W. Bush and also served in the Bush Administration before returning to California to join the office of Governor Pete Wilson.
Paul holds a BA in international relations and Russian studies at The George Washington University.
https://fgsglobal.com/people/paul-holmes
Paul Holmes
Vice Chair
Life at FGS Global
Advises leading corporations and institutions on high-stakes challenges, with a focus on crisis and issues, civil and criminal litigation, compliance, enforcement and governance.
Life Pre-FGS Global
Worked as an international journalist for 28 years, reporting from more than 50 countries.
Was the Global Editor for Political and General News at Reuters.
Life Beyond FGS Global
Loves his kids and their kids, and cooking for them.
Reads military history and enjoys other people’s stories.
As Partner at FGS Global, Paul Holmes advises corporations and institutions on high-stakes challenges, with a focus on crisis and issues, civil and criminal litigation, compliance, enforcement and governance. He has counseled directors and C-suites on some of the biggest crises in corporate history, sensitive leadership changes, record-breaking settlements and bet-the-company lawsuits. His less conventional mandates include representing the shipping line in the 2009 hijacking of the Maersk Alabama by Somali pirates and pro bono support for a death row inmate and the families of Americans held hostage in Iran.
Before taking up a career in strategic communications, Paul was a successful international journalist for almost three decades, working in more than 50 countries. He was the Global Editor for Political and General News for five years at Reuters.
Paul’s work in litigation and crisis communications has been recognized with Band One rankings from Chambers & Partners and by Lawdragon, and he is a co-author of the Latin Lawyer guide to crisis management and of four books on international affairs. He is an Ethics Fellow of the Poynter Institute of Journalism Studies in St. Petersburg, Florida and a member of the Leadership Council of the Committee to Protect Journalists.
Paul speaks fluent French, German and Italian and has a bachelor’s degree in modern languages from the University of Exeter in the UK.
https://fgsglobal.com/people/sydney-ann-neuhaus
Sydney Neuhaus
Partner & Vice Chair
She/Her
Life at FGS Global
Manages strategic communications, reputation engagement and thought leadership programs, and provides hands-on crisis communications and issues management support across sectors, including education and health care.
Life Pre-FGS Global
Worked at FleishmanHillard, focusing on corporate communications campaigns in the U.S. and globally.
Earlier jobs included Edelman PR and political consulting firm, The Garth Group.
Life Beyond FGS Global
Can be found taking long walks, playing fetch with her dog, or exploring new Brooklyn restaurants.
Never far from a stack of magazines, newspapers and books.
Sydney Ann Neuhaus is Partner and Vice Chair at FGS Global, based in New York. She creates and manages strategic communications, reputation engagement and thought leadership programs and provides hands-on crisis communications and issues management support. She works one-on-one with CEOs and C-suite executives, Board members and subject matter experts for Fortune 500 companies, professional associations, non-profit organizations, and academic institutions.
Sydney has extensive expertise in media and presentation skills training, helping clients deliver their story in a compelling and authentic manner. She has presented at conferences and institutions about crisis communications and strategic communications, including the National Association of Corporate Directors, the Society for Corporate Governance, and Harvard Business School.
Previously, Sydney worked at FleishmanHillard, focusing on corporate communications campaigns in the U.S. and globally. Earlier, she established and ran the PR division of Omnicom’s Harrison & Star and also worked at Edelman Public Relations and The Garth Group, a political consulting firm.
Sydney was named one of LawDragon’s 2022 and 2023 “Global 100 Leaders in Legal Strategy & Consulting,” as well as “one of the top people in crisis PR” by Business Insider and a “Champion of PR" by PR Week. Sydney graduated cum laude and with Phi Beta Kappa honors from Cornell University.
https://fgsglobal.com/people/brandon-messina
Brandon Messina
Partner, Corporate Counsel
Life at FGS Global
Advises public and private companies in many industries on communications strategies for high-stakes litigation and crisis situations, management changes and ongoing corporate positioning. Also serves as Corporate Counsel.
Life Pre-FGS Global
Worked as an attorney in the corporate practice at Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP.
Life Beyond FGS Global
Enjoys running along the Hudson River and organizing the homes of friends and loved ones.
Brandon Messina is a Partner and Corporate Counsel in the New York office. He advises public and private companies in many industries on communications strategies in special situations, including high-stakes litigation and government investigations, crises, management changes and other sensitive reputational and legal matters, as well as on long-term corporate and media positioning.
Recent representations include a leading alternative asset manager in connection with an SEC investigation into alleged conflict-of-interest disclosure violations; a leading healthcare technology company in connection with a DOJ enforcement action and settlement over alleged violations of the Anti-Kickback Statute and the False Claims Act; an international bank in connection with a DOJ investigation into alleged violations of U.S. sanctions laws; a preeminent philanthropic organization in connection with whistleblower allegations and retaliation claims; a well-known public company in connection with the high-profile departure of a senior executive; a leading alternative asset manager in connection with a gender discrimination lawsuit; and high-profile individuals in connection with a range of federal and state litigation matters. Brandon also contributes to the firm's pro bono representation of a leading civil rights organization focused on LGBTQ issues.
Previously, Brandon worked on the teams that advised Tesla in connection with the SEC enforcement action and settlement over alleged violations of U.S. securities laws; Tyson Foods and Time Inc. in connection with senior-level management changes; and Starwood Hotels in connection with its contested acquisition by Marriott.
Earlier in his career, Brandon was an attorney in the corporate practice at Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP.
Brandon graduated summa cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania with a B.A. in political science and earned his J.D. from the University of Michigan Law School.
https://fgsglobal.com/people/akin-harrison
Akin Harrison
Chief Legal Officer
Life at FGS Global
Has overall responsibility for the company’s global legal and compliance operations and is a member of the executive committee and global partnership board.
Life Pre-FGS Global
Was Senior Vice President and General Counsel of TEGNA Inc. (NYSE: TGNA), where he was responsible for all of the company’s legal and compliance matters. Began his legal career as a corporate attorney with Weil, Gotshal & Manges in New York and Brobeck, Phleger and Harrison in Washington, DC.
Life Beyond FGS Global
Enjoys traveling with his wife and three children. As a lifelong Yankees fan living in the Washington, DC area, Akin catches as many Yankees games as he can on television.
Akin Harrison is Chief Legal Officer at FGS Global, based out of the firm's Washington, D.C. office. At FGS, Akin serves on the company’s Global Executive Committee, has overall responsibility for the company’s global legal and compliance operations, and provides counsel to the company’s Board of Directors and senior management team.
Akin is a trusted advisor and skilled executive who has experience helping clients navigate highly sensitive matters in a wide range of legal and business areas, including complex corporate transactions, securities regulation and reporting, corporate governance, ethics and compliance, internal investigations, cybersecurity and environmental, social and governance (ESG) matters.
Prior to joining FGS, Akin was Senior Vice President and General Counsel of TEGNA Inc. (NYSE:
Akin began his legal career as a corporate attorney with Weil, Gotshal & Manges in New York and Brobeck, Phleger and Harrison in Washington, D.C., where his practice included representing Fortune 500 companies, venture capital firms and early-stage companies in mergers and acquisitions, venture capital financings and corporate lending transactions.
Akin earned his undergraduate degree in aerospace engineering from the University of Virginia and his J.D. from the University of Michigan Law School.
https://fgsglobal.com/people/jim-finkle
Jim Finkle
Managing Director
He/Him
Life at FGS Global
Advises clients on a wide variety of issues, reputation and crisis management, and special situations with a focus on technology, healthcare, education, financial services and cross border matters involving China.
Life Pre-FGS Global
Communications Director at Palo Alto Networks following a career covering cybersecurity, technology, business and finance, national security for media organizations including Reuters and Bloomberg.
Life Beyond FGS Global
Theater lover, fitness enthusiast, dog dad, meditation practitioner. Has lived and worked in New York, Toronto, San Francisco, Southern California, Tokyo, Taipei and Xian, China.
Jim Finkle is a Managing Director in the Boston office. He advises clients on a wide variety of areas – from issues management and special situations to crisis and cyber response. Areas of focus include technology, healthcare, education, financial services and cross border matters involving China.
Prior to joining FGS, he worked as Director of Communications with the cybersecurity firm Palo Alto Networks. He also spent more than two decades working as a journalist with Reuters, Bloomberg News and other media organizations, covering issues from financial news to healthcare, technology, cybersecurity and national security. He held a variety of reporting and editing positions in New York, Toronto, Boston, San Francisco, Southern California, Tokyo and Taipei.
Jim has a Masters in East Asian Studies from Yale University and a B.A. in History from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. He spent 11 years living in Asia, where he became fluent in Mandarin.
255 Giralda Avenue, Floor 7
Coral Gables
Florida 33134
United States
P: 561 867 1430
José Parra
Partner
He/Him
Life at FGS Global
José provides strategic counsel and insights to clients engaging with Latino stakeholders, as well as advising on Latino-focused messaging and outreach. José leads FGS Prospero, the agency’s Latino stakeholder practice.
Life Pre-FGS Global
José founded Prospero Latino, a Latino-owned and powered bilingual strategic communications firm, which was integrated into FGS Global in October 2023. He is a former senior advisor to former Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid. He started his career as a reporter in South Florida.
Life Beyond FGS Global
José can be found spending time with his family and rambunctious dogs, catching the perfect wave in Florida waters or remote locations, or enjoying music from Colombian folk classics, to Pearl Jam and George Frideric Handel.
José Dante Parra is a partner at FGS Global and leads FGS Prospero, the agency’s Latino-focused practice. In 2014, José founded Prospero Latino, a Latino-owned and powered bilingual strategic communications firm based in Miami and Washington, DC. Prospero Latino was fully integrated into FGS Global in October 2023.
Prior to Prospero Latino, José was a former senior aide to then-Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid. During his time on Capitol Hill, he worked on issues as varied as clean energy, immigration reform, and healthcare reform, and Hispanic outreach. José was also and advisor in 2012 presidential campaign. In 2010, José helped secure Reid’s reelection in Nevada despite the Tea Party wave that swept Congress that year. José started his career in South Florida as a reporter, first for The Miami Herald, and then the South Florida Sun-Sentinel, where he covered stories such as the 2000 presidential election and recount, the Elián González saga, and federal trials on issues as varied as a Cuban spy network and corrupt police officers at the City of Miami.
Federal Triangle
1299 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.
FL 12
Washington, DC 20004
Brent Robinson
Managing Director, Government Affairs Energy & Sustainability
Life at FGS Global
Member of the Government Affairs Energy & Sustainability Practice.
Life Pre-FGS Global
Twenty year career as Congressional staffer in the U.S. House of Representatives with policy experience across the areas of natural resources and national security.
Life Beyond FGS Global
Married, father of two girls. Angler, artist, amateur chef, Brazilian jiu-jitsu student, musician and weightlifter.
Ben Waldron
Managing Director, Strategic Communications Division
Life at FGS Global
Helps his clients tell stories that hit the right notes so they can reach the audiences that matter and navigate opportunity, challenge, and change.
Life Pre-FGS Global
Worked for FGS Global predecessor firm along with another top firm in the industry. Spent three years on the marketing team at a large software company.
Life Beyond FGS Global
Lives with his family in Baltimore, MD. Music hound, half-hearted cyclist, hopelessly devout O's & Ravens fan. Above all, anchovy addict.
Suite 2200
161 Bay Street
Toronto, ON Canada
M5J 2S1
Ian Hamilton
Partner
He/Him
Life at FGS Global
Develops and executes integrated communications strategies and advises clients on a wide range of complex situations, including M&A, financial, corporate and crisis communications.
Life Pre-FGS Global
Started in journalism and then managed communications at a large mining company. Co-founded DFH Public Affairs in 2007, merged with Longview in 2018, became FGS Longview in 2023.
Life Beyond FGS Global
Husband, father of two wonderful people. Enthusiastic but mediocre golfer and curler. Avid traveler.
Suite 1110
150 9th Ave. SW
Calgary, AB Canada
T2P 3H9
Martin Cej
Partner
He/Him
Life at FGS Global
Specializes in media strategy, integrated communications campaigns, issue and crisis management, serving clients across a diverse range of industries.
Life Pre-FGS Global
Spent two decades as a financial journalist in Europe, Canada and the US. More recently led communications and public affairs for a Class I railroad.
Life Beyond FGS Global
If it's snowing, he is probably skiing.
Hugh McFadyen
PartnerHugh McFadyen is a Partner in the Calgary office. Hugh has been advising leading corporate clients for over 10 years. Prior to joining FGS Longview Hugh was Leader of the Official Opposition in Manitoba for 7 years and previously spent over 5 years as a senior advisor to a number of Canadian politicians, including Director of Policy and Chief of Staff to the Premier of Manitoba. He is a lawyer by training and started his career as a commercial litigator. Hugh has worked on a range of significant assignments including investment political risk analysis, M&A approvals, major project approvals, crisis communications and general government relations. He is an instructor with the ICD’s political intelligence program and has served as a volunteer director with community arts and educational organizations. Hugh has Bachelor degrees in Arts (political studies and economics) and Law from the University of Manitoba.
Mark Harris
Global CFO & COO
He/Him
Life at FGS Global
Serves the partnership as its Chief Financial and Operating Officer and a member of our Executive Committee.
Life Pre-FGS Global
Was Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Head of Operations of Heidrick & Struggles (Nasdaq: HSII) and member of the firm’s Executive Committee. Responsible for the company’s finance and accounting functions, information technology and business operations, based in New York.
Life Beyond FGS Global
Loves to travel abroad, avid weight lifter, wine collector and football coach when time permits.
The One Big Beautiful Bill:
Opportunities and Challenges for Clean Energy Investment in a New Era
Webcast On-Demand
On July 4, 2025, President Trump signed into law the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBB), which significantly rolls back many of the core tax incentives that clean energy projects have relied on since the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act in 2022, and implements a host of new restrictions. A White House Executive Order issued on July 7, 2025 further complicates the picture for solar and wind. Join Latham & Watkins in the latest installment of our We've Got Washington Covered and Global Energy & Infrastructure Insights series, where our tax leaders in the renewable energy and energy transition sectors will analyze the implications for clean energy investment, including:
Speakers |
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Eli M. Katz
Partner
Scott W. Cockerham
Partner
Jim Cole
Partner
San Francisco Address
The Orrick Building
405 Howard Street
San Francisco, CA 94105-2669
United States
Bay Area: San Francisco and Silicon Valley
Our founding office opened in San Francisco in 1863. That makes us the second-oldest Bay Area private company after Levi Strauss & Co. We added our Silicon Valley office more than two decades ago and, today, have a team of 300 lawyers based in the Bay Area. In the spirit of California, we’re forward-looking and constantly adapting.
Our clients reflect the California economy and its global influence. We represent the world’s leading public tech companies and more than 1,600 startups, including some of the most exciting disruptors. We act for renewable energy pioneers, Fortune 500 companies, financial institutions and funds, and the state of California and its municipal entities. Our local practice mirrors our global focus: advising the technology, energy & infrastructure and finance clients in their highest-stakes transactional, litigation and compliance matters.
Technology
We practice at the heart of the technology ecosystem, providing comprehensive support for tech companies at every stage of the corporate life cycle. Our practice for both public and private tech companies encompasses financing, M&A, corporate governance, IP asset protection, cybersecurity, executive compensation and employment. We offer one of the premier IP, litigation and compliance teams for the tech sector. And we do it all globally, enabling us to scale with our clients. We represent public companies in U.S. and cross-border investments, working with our tech-focused lawyers in 25 markets worldwide. In recognition of the broad nature of our practice, Law360 has recognized our team as one of four Technology Groups of the Year globally for the past two years.
We’re especially focused on helping disruptors address the complex legal and policy issues that their innovative models often raise. We’ve completed some of the most successful financing rounds for unicorns such as Pinterest, Stripe, 23andMe, SoFi and many others. And The Recorder named us 2016 Corporate Department of the Year for Emerging Companies. We’ve also closed a string of tech IPOs and follow-on offerings. And we’ve helped our tech clients execute landmark sales, including Nest’s sale to Google and Yammer’s sale to Microsoft. Recently, we advised Cruise Automation, a leader in the development of driverless car technology, in its acquisition by General Motors.
Intellectual Property
Our IP litigators have prevailed in landmark cases in the tech sector – and are litigating some of the most closely watched cases before the courts today. As The American Lawyer wrote in selecting us as IP Litigation Department of the Year for 2016, "[T]ime and again, we heard stories [from clients] lauding Orrick’s ability to jump into a case and successfully dig its clients out of a hole, even with little time to prepare."
We protect innovation. Our team acted for Oracle in its multibillion-dollar copyright infringement case against Google, where we created new law related to the copyrightability of software on appeal. We also represented the company in a high-profile retrial of copyright infringement claims against Google. Our success stems from our deep understanding of the underlying technology (not surprising, given that our team includes over 60 litigators with technical degrees) combined with proven courtroom skills. As The American Lawyer noted, we’ve shown this "across an impressive range of venues, using novel strategies. …" Our practice covers all types of intellectual property, including patent, trademark, copyright, trade secret, privacy and data protection litigation.
Energy
Our energy project development, finance and M&A team is part of a global practice that covers all energy assets, with its hub in Houston and team members in offices worldwide. Reflecting the California market, our Bay Area team has deep experience in renewables. We helped launch the U.S. renewables market in the 1980s, when we advised on the first-ever institutionally financed wind development. Since then we’ve played a leading role in the expansion of solar and wind power. We’ve also advised on some of the largest combinations in the renewables sector, including the $2.4 billion acquisition by a leading global solar energy developer of substantial wind and solar assets. We assisted more than 25 different bidders in the California utilities’ recent solicitations for new renewables, gas and storage projects. Our results are recognized in the market: In 2015, our team was selected as a Project Finance Group of the Year by Law360 for a third time.
Finance
Public Finance
Go anywhere in the Bay Area and you’re likely to see the impact of our top-ranked Public Finance team’s work. Our practice began more than a century ago with the financing of the Golden Gate Bridge. Over the years, we’ve secured financing of landmark projects such as Candlestick Park, the Bay Bridge, BART and the Moscone Center. We’re currently working on the Transbay Transit Center, dubbed "Grand Central Station of the West." We’re especially proud to work on financings with a social impact, including in education and affordable housing. We recently advised the City of Richmond on the nation’s first use of a social impact bond issue to fund the acquisition and rehabilitation of a blighted neighborhood.
Real Estate
The work of our Real Estate finance team extends up and down the West Coast – from the most environmentally friendly on-airport hotel in San Francisco to a new arena complex for the Sacramento Kings – and around the world. We’ve helped guide some of the industry’s most remarkable and challenging deals for real estate giants like Westbrook Partners, Deutsche Asset & Wealth Management, Tokyu Land Corporation, LaSalle Investment Management and Fortress Investment Group.
Tax
Our Tax team provides support on these deals as well as corporate, project finance and public finance transactions.
Roger Davis
Partner
San Francisco
Roger L. Davis' knowledge, experience and reputation in the area of public finance is second to none nationally. In November 2022, he was one of seven public finance professionals, and the only lawyer, inducted in the inaugural class of The Bond Buyer Hall of Fame. In his more than 40-year career practicing public finance, Roger had a lead role in more than 1000 transactions in roughly 20 states and territories – as bond counsel, underwriter’s counsel, borrower’s counsel, disclosure counsel, credit provider counsel, investor counsel and in other critical roles on virtually every type of bond issue.
Gregory Heibel
Partner
Silicon Valley
Gregory Heibel, co-leader of Orrick's Silicon Valley office, is a member of the Technology Companies Group, which advises emerging and public technology companies, venture capital firms and other technology investors, as well as Orrick’s Energy Group.
Greg's practice focuses on the formation, financing and strategic guidance of rapidly growing technology companies, the representation of venture capital firms and other investors in private and public offerings, as well as other complex transactions related to high growth companies.
Greg has completed many hundreds of financings, mergers, acquisitions and intellectual property transactions for young companies in the networking, wireless, Internet, software, life sciences and consumer sectors. He regularly advises some of the largest technology companies in the world, including a Fortune 10 technology leader, in their global strategic investments into innovative startups. Additionally, Greg has represented numerous publicly traded companies in their public offering, mergers and acquisitions and ongoing corporate governance needs, including Life360 (ASX:360), Foundry Networks, Virage Networks, Adeza, Laserscope, Intellisync and Preview Systems.
Greg also was an Assistant Investment Manager for Genevest, a venture capital firm based in Geneva, Switzerland, where he participated in the first organizational meeting of the European Union World Wide Web Consortium. Prior to practicing law, Greg worked with a number of venture capital backed technology companies in operational and advisory roles, including Intellimeter, eT Communications and Metering Technology Corporation.
----- Original Message -----
From: The Point thepoint@cbc.ca
Date: Fri, 21 Nov 2008 19:37:41 -0500
Subject: Re: I just heard you people talking on CBC and shook my head I
will lay odds Mr. Davis has heard of me
To: David Amos david.raymond.amos@gmail.com
Hello and thanks for writing to us here at The Point. We read every
email and try to present as many as possible on the air, as well as
follow up on any story idea suggestions. Unfortunately, however, we
cannot reply directly to all the mail we receive. If you have a
specific question about radio frequencies or a particular item
mentioned on CBC Radio, please contact our audience relations
department. (email:
audience.relations@cbc.ca)
----- Original Message -----
From: David Amos <david.raymond.amos@gmail.com>
To: "ldavis@orrick.com" <ldavis@orrick.com>
Cc: "thepoint@cbc.ca" <thepoint@cbc.ca>
Sent: Friday, November 21, 2008 at 08:37:07 PM AST
Subject: I just heard you people talking on CBC and shook my head I will lay odds Mr. Davis has heard of me
http://www.orrick.com/lawyers/Bio.asp?ID=149059
"Mr. Davis, a partner in the Washington, D.C. office, is a member of
the Litigation Group. Mr. Davis advises clients on a wide range of
legal and governmental issues. He concentrates his practice in civil
litigation, with particular focus on securities fraud and accounting
irregularities cases, antitrust, government contracts and commercial
litigation, and legal crisis management and strategic communications.
In June 2005, President Bush appointed Mr. Davis to serve on the
five-member Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board, created by
the U.S. Congress as part of the 2005 Intelligence Reform Act. "
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: David Amos <david.raymond.amos@gmail.com>
Date: Fri, 21 Nov 2008 08:52:46 -0400
Subject: Remember me Larry Becraft? I bet your client Dr. Ward Dean
still does EH?
To: becraft@hiwaay.net, webmaster@hourofthetime.com, hourofthetime@hotmail.com
http://www.hourofthetime.com/federaljurisdiction.html
http://www.warddeanmd.com/Doc%20117%20Motion%20to%20Inspect%20Jury%20Records.pdf
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: David Amos <david.raymond.amos@gmail.com>
Date: Wed, 19 Nov 2008 13:27:54 -0400
Subject: I JUST TALKED TO THE LAWYER NAMED MS. CUNNINGHAM NOW I WILL CALL POLKES
To: LehmanTeam@weil.com, RBaker@alvarezandmarsal.com,
kmacleod@lehman.com, jessica.cunningham@weil.com,
jonathan.polkes@weil.com
Cc: webo <webo@xplornet.com>
http://www.weil.com/news/newsdetail.aspx?news=36684
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: David Amos <david.raymond.amos@gmail.com>
Date: Fri, 7 Nov 2008 16:28:53 -0400
Subject: I am on the phone to you folks in Canada right now. I also
sent this email to INTERPOL byway of their webpage
To: Campbell.Meaghan@gmail.com, info@gopacnetwork.org,
askgov@worldbank.org, Dan Fitzgerald <danf@danf.net>,
"t.j.burke@gnb.ca" <t.j.burke@gnb.ca>, marilyne.nahum@cb-bc.gc.ca,
denis.morin@rcmp-grc.gc.ca, USAMA.MEDIA@usdoj.gov
Cc: mail@globalwitness.org, sg@iap.nl.com, info@iap.nl.com,
ptf@partnershipfortransparency.info, traccc@american.edu,
lshelley@gmu.edu
I can be reached at 506 756 8687
www.gopacnetwork.org
The Global Organization Against Corruption (GOPAC) is an international
network of parliamentarians dedicated to good governance and combating
corruption throughout the world.
Global Organisation of Parliamentarians against corruption
255 Albert Street, Suite 802
Ottawa, Ontario K1P 6A9
1 613 432 1640 ;
1 613 237 0143 X 371
Contact persons :
Meaghan Campbell
Communications and Program(s) Consultant
Kimberley Jordan
Program(s) Assistant
www.globalwitness.org/index.php
Description
Global Witness was the first organization that sought to break the
links between the exploitation of natural resources, and conflict and
corruption. Global Witness exposes the corrupt exploitation of natural
resources and international trade systems, to drive campaigns that end
impunity, resource-linked conflict, and human rights and environmental
abuses. Relevant areas of work are corruption in oil, gas and mining
as well as the role of financial institutions.
Global Witness
Global Witness
PO Box 6042
London N19 5WP
www.iap.nl.com/
The International Association of Prosecutors (IAP) is a
non-governmental and non-political organization. Its creation was in
response to the rapid growth in serious transnational crime,
particularly drug trafficking, money laundering and fraud. There was a
perceived need for greater international co-operation between
prosecutors and for faster and more efficient mutual assistance, asset
tracking and other international co-operative measures.
International Association of Prosecutors
Hartogstraat 13
2514 EP
The Hague The Netherlands
www.partnershipfortransparency.info/
PTF is an international non-governmental organization dedicated to
helping civil society play an effective role in the design,
implementation and monitoring of national anti-corruption programs.
Partnership for Transparency Fund
4355 Klingle St NW
Washington DC 20016
www.american.edu/traccc/
The Transnational Crime and Corruption Centre (TraCCC) is the first
centre in the United States devoted to teaching, research, training
and formulating policy advice in transnational crime, corruption and
terrorism. TraCCC's fundamental goal is to better understand the
causes and scope of transnational crime and corruption and to propose
well-grounded policy to reduce and eliminate these problems.
Transnational Crime and Corruption Centre (TraCCC)
American University
School of Public Policy, George Mason University
3401 Fairfax Drive, MS 3B1
Arlington, VA 22201, USA
Ph: (703) 993-9757
Fax: (703) 993-8193
http://policy-traccc.gmu.edu
www.worldbank.org/wbi/governance
Hundreds of governance and anti-corruption activities are taking place
throughout the World Bank Group focusing on internal organizational
integrity, minimizing corruption on World Bank-funded projects, and
assisting countries in improving governance and controlling
corruption.
World Bank – Governance and Anti-corruption
1818 H Street, NW
Washington, DC 20433 USA
202-473-1000
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: David Amos <david.raymond.amos@gmail.com>
Date: Thu, 6 Nov 2008 21:03:58 -0400
Subject: Sometime when Frank Quattrone or his lawyer and banker
buddies are bored perhaps they should study this email. EH?
To: Info@qatalyst.com, "john. conyers" <John.Conyers@mail.house.gov>,
"flaherty.j@parl.gc.ca" <flaherty.j@parl.gc.ca>, "victor. boudreau2"
<victor.boudreau2@gnb.ca>, "t.j.burke@gnb.ca" <t.j.burke@gnb.ca>
Cc: apalmer@jmpg.com, jtarkoff@jmpsecurities.com, "jennifer. warren"
<jennifer.warren@cibc.com>, Dan Fitzgerald <danf@danf.net>
Trust that some Canadians know that I understand the world of fierce
financing and litgation and politicking even though they won't admit
it..
http://www.fiercefinance.com/story/get-ready-for-quattrone-2.0/2008-03-19
This forwarded email should prove my sincerity
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: David Amos <david.raymond.amos@gmail.com>
Date: Thu, 6 Nov 2008 15:53:19 -0400
Subject: Hell even Big Bankers form India pretend that they do not
know how to read yet want more of my stuff?
To: konrad.vonfinckenstein@crtc.gc.ca, jones@unbsj.ca,
carleton@stu.ca, gdegannes@cumberlandcounty.ns.ca, info@ckdu.ca,
info@caperradio.com, jmartin@mta.ca, ckdh@mbsradio.com,
mail@mbsradio.com, michele.caron@umoncton.ca, dlegere@cupe.ca,
levesque.anne@gmail.com, marilynquinn@nbnu.ca, rob
<rob@jollyfarmer.com>, kreicker <kreicker@nb.sympatico.ca>,
rjcbrown@nbnet.nb.ca, bernard.montigny@crtc.gc.ca,
john.keogh@crtc.gc.ca, cgill@unb.ca, blaney@unb.ca, rinaa@unb.ca,
tsavage@unb.ca, customercare.ca@icicibank.com
Cc: "Harper.S@parl.gc.ca" <Harper.S@parl.gc.ca>, webo <webo@xplornet.com>
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: ICICI Bank Canada <customercare.ca@icicibank.com>
Date: Thu, 06 Nov 2008 21:23:33 +0530
Subject: RE:'ICICICARE=031-627-108' I just called you people and I was
not impressed with your ethics
To: David Amos <david.raymond.amos@gmail.com>
Dear Customer,
We have received the incomplete mail from you. We request you to
elaborate your query to enable us to assist you further.
Sincerely,
Sirisha D V
Customer Service Officer
ICICI Bank Canada
CONFIDENTIALITY INFORMATION AND DISCLAIMER:
This e-mail message may contain confidential, proprietary or legally
privileged information. It should not be accessed by anyone who is not
the original intended recipient. If you have erroneously received this
message, please delete it immediately and notify the sender. You will
appreciate that e-mail transmission cannot be guaranteed to be secure
or error-free as its contents are susceptible to loss, damage,
interception, destruction, etc. Before opening any attachments please
check them for viruses and defects. The notice appended to the e-mails
is not intended to prejudice the interests of our customers in any
manner or to evade responsibility for any act of done with the
endorsement of ICICI Bank.
-----Original Message-----
From: David Amos (david.raymond.amos@gmail.com)
Date: Wednesday, November 05, 2008 08:24 PM
To: customercare.ca@icicibank.com (customercare.ca@icicibank.com)
Subject: I just called you people and I was not impressed with your ethics
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: David Amos <david.raymond.amos@gmail.com>
Date: Fri, 31 Oct 2008 12:14:55 -0300
Subject: Donne Smith and I should have our long talk now EH Mr Hancox?
To: rick.hancox@nbsc-cvmnb.ca, donne.smith@nbsc-cvmnb.ca,
obrienhl@gov.ns.ca, daren.baxter@mcinnescooper.com, justweb@gov.ns.ca,
mlaclarke@ns.sympatico.ca, peacocrs@gov.ns.ca
Cc: "t.j.burke@gnb.ca" <t.j.burke@gnb.ca>, oldmaison95@yahoo.ca, Dan
Fitzgerald <danf@danf.net>, "flaherty.j@parl.gc.ca"
<flaherty.j@parl.gc.ca>, ddexter@ns.sympatico.ca
The Minister of Justice of New Brunswick can never say that he did not
know the truth about my concerns a long long time ago as did the
Minister of Justice of Nova Scotia.
Correct Mr Peacock?
http://www.scribd.com/doc/2720407/nb-securities-commission
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: David Amos <david.raymond.amos@gmail.com>
Date: Fri, Oct 31, 2008 at 11:22 AM
Subject: We just talked Mr. Sinclair need I say I hate it when Upper
Canadian lawyers play dumb?
To: alan.sinclair@ubs.com
http://www.lexpert.ca/directory/DirectoryContent/Practitioner.aspx?lawyers_id=43699
Alan Sinclair
UBS Bank (Canada) - Toronto
Phone: (416) 345-7082
Fax: (416) 345-7145
Email: alan.sinclair@ubs.com
You will find the first portion of this email posted on the same law
blog. Perhaps you should call me back now and quit playing dumb EH?
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: David Amos <david.raymond.amos@gmail.com>
Date: Fri, Oct 31, 2008 at 1:18 AM
Subject: RE: David Aufhauser, general counsel for UBS' investment banking
To: info@ubs.com, fund-info@ubs.com
Do you people recognize the problem UBS have had with me for a very long time?
Perhaps you should google your ex lawyer's name and mine EH?
http://www.google.com/search?q=%22David+Aufhauser%22+%22David+Amos%22&rls=com.microsoft:*&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&startIndex=&startPage=1
or find his name within these documents
http://www.scribd.com/doc/2619437/CROSS-BORDER-
Here is the text of one them here in this blog. Look for the following line
"Senator Edward M. Kennedy David D. Aufhauser, General Counsel"
http://davidamos.blogspot.com/2005/03/me-and-bush.html
Clearly David Aufhauser's name is directly across from Ted Kennedy's
and he answered me Aufhauser quit the Treasury Dept just like he just
did with you when the going got tough.
The links above and below prove to you that a dumb Maritimer know hows
to read and write and even though he hasn't been to some fancy law
school he has sued many lawyers in the past CORRECT?
http://blogs.wsj.com/law/2008/10/07/aufhauser-former-ubs-gc-settles-insider-trading-allegations/
Notice that I have inserted the first portion of this email as a
comment within the link above and that I have inserted a couple of my
latest emails at the bottom of this email. (I do this in this fashion
so that no one can ever claim that I am being sneaky or underhanded.
That is what crooked lawyers do not me. The next time I call UBS in
Canada (which will be very soon indeed) please do not allow the snobby
people in Upper Canada to laugh at me anymore or rest assured I will
sue your bank in a heartbeart to seek relief from your assistance to
the wrongs practiced against my family and I. If you doubt me or my
sincerity ask your former Generl Counsel or the US Treasury Dept or
the Attorney General of Masschusetts why I truly beieve and can prove
that they have no integrity whatsoever.
However if you bankers were truly wise in these troubling times I
believe you will realize that we can be of great assistance to each
other and the people who trust in your integrity. Perhaps you should
read my comments in this law blog as well.
http://blogs.wsj.com/law/2008/05/14/emperors-club-booker-pleads-guilty-to-counts-of-conspiracy/
Ask your selves where the transcripts of these Senate Banking
Committee hearings went
http://banking.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?Fuseaction=Hearings.Detail&HearingID=102e41a1-f540-4ce5-a701-b6d09b7606b1
http://banking.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?Fuseaction=Hearings.Detail&HearingID=90f8e691-9065-4f8c-a465-72722b47e7f2
Then you should read this file
http://www.scribd.com/full/2900409?access_key=key-1g4hnaqdkq4fbgqjyffd
Although UBS is far from innocent and it has definitely failed its
fiduciary responsibilities towards ist investors etc not all of the
wrongs were of your bank's doing. The wicked plans were dreamed up by
evil lawyers such as David Aufhauser and assisted to by governments
and the taxpayers are begining to understand that simple fact..
Veritas Vincit
David Raymond Amos
UBS Global Asset Management (Canada) Co.
Street Address:
161 Bay Street
Suite 3900
Toronto, ONT M5J 2S1
Mailing Address:
Box 618
Toronto, ONT M5J 2S1
Telephone: 1-416-681 5200
Facsimile: 1-416-681 5100
Internet: www.ubs.com
September 09, 2008
From the Pages of The Pomerantz Monitor: UBS Pressured to Settle
Auction Rate Securities Claims
The September issue of The Pomerantz Monitor relays events that led
UBS to enter into a global settlement with federal and state
regulators over auction rate securities. UBS, the Swiss banking
colossus with $1.9 trillion under management and over 80,000 employees
worldwide, has been forced to write off close to $43 billion in the
value of its debt portfolio. Its stock is down more than 50% this
year. Its chairman, CEO and other senior executives have been forced
out. And it is at the center of the auction rate securities debacle
and a tax fraud investigation. On August 12, UBS announced that in the
second quarter, its private-banking clients had withdrawn funds for
the first time in eight years; and that it is cutting 5,500 jobs. UBS'
wealth management advisors are reportedly defecting in droves.
About 50,000 UBS customers are now stuck with $37 billion worth of
auction rate securities. In order to settle a suit brought by the
Massachusetts Attorney General, claiming that UBS misled investors
about the safety and liquidity of those securities, UBS recently
agreed to pay $4.4 million and announced it would buy back up to $3.5
billion of auction rate preferred stock sold by closed-end tax-exempt
funds and held in UBS accounts as of that date.
The New York Attorney General ("NYAG") filed a similar suit on July
24; on the same day, the Texas State Securities Board moved to suspend
UBS' securities license in the state until UBS repurchases, at par,
all auction rate securities it sold to Texas investors. In addition,
the SEC was conducting an investigation into the auction rate
securities crisis.
Finally, on August 8, UBS, under overwhelming pressure, entered into a
global settlement with federal and state regulators in which it agreed
to buy back nearly $19 billion of auction rate securities held by
retail investors.
The New York action had the potential to be particularly embarrassing
for UBS. The suit alleges that seven UBS executives unloaded a total
of $21 million in auction rate securities in the months leading up to
the market's collapse, while the bank was telling customers that these
securities were safe. Among the seven was David Aufhauser, general
counsel for UBS' investment banking arm. The NYAG's complaint
references an email sent to Aufhauser, among others, anticipating the
UBS pull-out from the auction market for these securities. Later that
same day Aufhauser instructed his financial advisor to dump all his
auction rate securities holdings. Aufhauser has now resigned.
UBS is also in the dock for supposedly helping thousands of wealthy
investors from around the world hide their assets and income from tax
collectors. On July 17, 2008, a Senate subcommittee released a
110-page report on "Tax Haven Banks and U.S. Tax Compliance" that
focused on UBS and LGT Group, the largest bank in Liechtenstein, a
country which has been blacklisted by the Organization for Economic
Cooperation and Development for past money laundering activities. The
report concludes that, in order to recruit U.S. clients, UBS
established an elaborate formal training program on such subjects as
how to avoid surveillance by U.S. customs and law enforcement, and how
to secretly move money in and out of the country.
Apparently the IRS caught on to UBS when it audited a billionaire from
California and discovered some of the hidden assets. The billionaire
pleaded guilty to tax evasion and informed against his former UBS
private banker, Bradley Birkenfeld. When the IRS knocked on
Birkenfeld's door, he described to them the whole UBS tax evasion
program.
On July 17, the same day that the subcommittee held hearings and
released its report, UBS tried to head off the inevitable retribution
by announcing that it would stop offering offshore banking services to
U.S. clients and would cooperate with U.S. efforts to identify its
19,000 U.S. clients that it had previously failed to identify to the
Treasury.
UBS' chagrin was no doubt exacerbated by its being lumped together
with LGT. The taped testimony of the subcommittee's chief witness
against LGT, Heinrich Kleiber, was recorded in with his face in
shadows and his voice disguised.
LGT reportedly got caught when Kieber, a lowly information technology
employee and convicted felon, stole client account records in 2002 and
sold them to the authorities. The German and British governments
allegedly paid him a total of $7million for account records relating
to their citizens. Several individuals are already being prosecuted
for tax evasion, and more way be waiting for the other shoe to drop.
When the LGT scandal broke, Kieber received death threats from all
over the world, and there is reportedly a $10 million price on his
head. This, no doubt, reflects the type of clients LGT went out of its
way to recruit. Interpol is reportedly hunting for him too. Kieber is
now in hiding, with a new identity. "He's hunted, he's wanted — this
is not what I would call living the good life," said Jack A. Blum, Mr.
Kieber's lawyer. He may get to enjoy his $7 million, but we're
guessing that it won't be any time soon.
From: David Amos david.raymond.amos@gmail.com
Subject: Attn Martine Turcotte I am still curious. Is Mikey Duffy too???
To: martine.turcotte@bell.ca, diane.valade@bell.ca, cwhite@wob.nf.ca,
michel.lalande@bell.ca, jean-francois.legault@bell.ca,
christopher.ginther@bell.ca, atvnews@ctv.ca, bcecomms@bce.ca,
newsroom@globeandmail.ca, "duffy" duffy@ctv.ca, "Akoschany"
Akoschany@ctv.ca, "w-five" W-Five@ctv.ca, "checkup" checkup@cbc.ca,
"jacques_poitras" jacques_poitras@cbc.ca, "jonesr@cbc.ca"
jonesr@cbc.ca, "Jason Keenan" jason.keenan@icann.org, "josie. maguire"
josie.maguire@dfait-maeci.gc.ca, "Andrew.Krystal"
Andrew.Krystal@rci.rogers.com, "acampbell" acampbell@ctv.ca
Cc: carl.urquhart@gnb.ca, forest@conservationcouncil.ca,
oldmaison@yahoo.com, "Dan Fitzgerald" danf@danf.net, "Richard Harris"
injusticecoalition@hotmail.com, "richard. dearden"
richard.dearden@gowlings.com, "sheila.fraser"
sheila.fraser@oag-bvg.gc.ca, Harper.S@parl.gc.ca,
Duceppe.G@parl.gc.ca, "dions1" dions1@parl.gc.ca, Layton.J@parl.gc.ca,
leader@greenparty.ca
Date: Thursday, October 30, 2008, 6:54 PM
It has been over four years and 4 Parliaments I how long must I wait
for Bell canada to act with integrity???
----- Original Message -----
From: martine.turcotte@bell.ca
To: motomaniac_02186@hotmail.com
Cc: bcecomms@bce.ca ; W-Five@ctv.ca
Sent: Thursday, August 19, 2004 10:28 AM
Subject: RE: I am curious
Mr. Amos, I confirm that I have received your documentation. There is
no need to send us a hard copy. As you have said yourself, the
documentation is very voluminous and after 3 days, we are still in the
process of printing it. I have asked one of my lawyers to review it in
my absence and report back to me upon my return in the office. We will
then provide you with a reply.
Martine Turcotte
Chief Legal Officer / Chef principal du service juridique
BCE Inc. / Bell Canada
1000 de La Gauchetière ouest, bureau 3700
Montréal (Qc) H3B 4Y7
Tel: (514) 870-4637
Fax: (514) 870-4877
email: martine.turcotte@bell.ca
Executive Assistant / Assistante à la haute direction: Diane Valade
Tel: (514) 870-4638
email: diane.valade@bell.ca
From: David Amos <david.raymond.amos@gmail.com>
Subject: Is Mr Leblanc in Boston going to assist in reuniting my
family and preventing my false imprisonment again or not???
To: Bostncs@international.gc.ca, pm@pm.gc.ca, info@pco-bcp.gc.ca,
VanLoan.P@parl.gc.ca, Cannon.L@parl.gc.ca
Cc: dions1@parl.gc.ca, "layton. j" <Layton.J@parl.gc.ca>,
moore.r@parl.gc.ca, "Duceppe. G" <Duceppe.G@parl.gc.ca>,
thompson.g@parl.gc.ca, Nicholson.R@parl.gc.ca
Date: Thursday, October 30, 2008, 7:52 PM
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: David Amos <david.raymond.amos@gmail.com>
Date: Thu, 30 Oct 2008 12:44:50 -0300
Subject: Hey Harper obviously I called Jay Hill and your Privy Council
too Correct?
To: pm@pm.gc.ca, info@pco-bcp.gc.ca
Cc: thompson.g@parl.gc.ca, Nicholson.R@parl.gc.ca,
"moore.r@parl.gc.ca" <moore.r@parl.gc.ca>, "Duceppe.
G"
<Duceppe.G@parl.gc.ca>, dions1@parl.gc.ca, "layton. j"
<Layton.J@parl.gc.ca>
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: David Amos <david.raymond.amos@gmail.com>
Date: Thu, Oct 30, 2008 at 12:10 PM
Subject: I am on the phone to VanLoan and Cannon's offices. We all
know why Correct?
To: VanLoan.P@parl.gc.ca, Cannon.L@parl.gc.ca
Cc: "Duceppe. G" <Duceppe.G@parl.gc.ca>, dions1@parl.gc.ca,
"layton.
j" <Layton.J@parl.gc.ca>
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: David Amos <david.raymond.amos@gmail.com>
Date: Thu, Oct 30, 2008 at 10:26 AM
Subject: I wonder if Jack Harris and the other NDP lawyers know how to
read I know that the liberals don't
To: Harris.J@parl.gc.ca, siobhan.coady@nf.sympatico.ca,
Coady.S@parl.gc.ca, judy@judyfoote.com, Andrews.S@parl.gc.ca
Cc: tturner@thewesternstar.com, Byron Prior <alltrue@nl.rogers.com>,
swoodford@thewesternstar.com
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: David Amos <david.raymond.amos@gmail.com>
Date: Sun, Oct 26, 2008 at 7:10 PM
Subject: Professor Fried now that you are no longer supporting McCain
perhaps you should study something.
To: fried@law.harvard.edu, info@campaignlegalcenter.org
Cc: craig.richard.alexander@td.com, checkup@cbc.ca, duffy@ctv.ca,
dions1@parl.gc.ca, "layton. j" <Layton.J@parl.gc.ca>,
leader@greenparty.ca, "Duceppe. G" <Duceppe.G@parl.gc.ca>, Dan
Fitzgerald <danf@danf.net>, "oldmaison. wcie"
<oldmaison.wcie@gmail.com>
Professor Fried
Please read this first.
http://www.scribd.com/doc/2718120/Integrity-Yea-Right
As I am writng this the CBC is having their weekly talk show hosted by
a Maritimer named Rex Murphy whom I do not respect. He and another
Maritmer Mike duffy amongst legions of others know exactly who I am
and about my battles with the US Treasury Dept and a great many others
in court in Massachusetts. Even if I could get through on the p[hone
to Rex's assistant the CBC will never allow me to speak on the
publicly owned airwaves again so I will let them know that I am paying
attention bywayof this email to you.. The topic today all over Canada
is of course the ECONOMY and many highly placed people in two
purportedly profound democracies are well aware that I have been
trying to expose the wrongs of bankers and the US Treasury Dept long
before most folks ever heard of the term sub prime mortgage. The fact
that Rex just talked to a blogger in Washington is indeed very
agravting so in response i will post the email in several blogs
because is how i just learned about you and your recent personal
decision regarding the pending election in the USA.
Professor Fried I sincerely hope that you are the honest man whom I
have been seeking for many years. I have no doubt whatsoever that the
lawyers J. Gerald Hebert, Trevor Potter, Tara Malloy and Paul Ryan in
John McCain's Campaign Legal Center, in Washington, DC. curse my name
on a daily basis lately. The first link i asked you to read is just
one of the many reasons why. Whereas the questionable actions of the
US Treasury Dept is the hot topic in the last days of this
presidential election, I will wager the lawyers will have no idea how
to answer this email so they will try hard to ignore it and not tell
their boss John McCain about it so he can continue to play dumb about
me and of my concerns about the severe lack of integrity of bankers
and their governmental cohorts.
Canadians rely on the integrity of the US Treasury Dept too. I for one
as a Proud Canadian citizen have no respect for Solitictor Generals
who fail to act within the scope of their employment for political
reasons and have practiced my right to run against their malevolent
political parties every chance I got before I sue the Her Majesty the
Queen. I truly hope that you took the time to read the link to the
document above and found your friend John McCain's answer to me in
2005. It obviously came to long before I ran for a seat in Canada's
Parliament once again and long before Stephen Harper won his first
minority mandate for the Neo Cons up here north of the 49th. If not
check the document I have provided below. McCain's is the top letter
but the next one is every bit as important particularly in light of
the fact of whom you just voted for.
http://www.scribd.com/doc/3870294/senators-obama-and-mccain-and-others
I certainly agree that you had the irrefutable right to vote for Obama
or anyone else instead of your friend McCain in advance and in private
byway of an absentee ballot. However I don't beleive you were fully
informed. Correct? I was very impressed that you obviously ethically
informed the General Counsel of McCain lection campaign of your
decision prior to pollong day. If his General counsel were a wise man
he would have kept the letter to himself and simply removed your name
from a roster of commitees just as you requested and let the politcal
cards fall where they may. However I must confess I am very curious as
to how your letter McCain's legal counsel was leaked to the bloggers
so quickly and it does not seem that the press has picked up the ball
and ran with it yet even though the New York Times and the Anchorage
Daily News recently endorsed Obama is also well aware of your vote and
of my many emails and phone calls to them over the years. I find this
very strange to say the least.
http://www.blogrunner.com/snapshot/D/4/9/reagan_appointee_and_recent_mccain_adviser_charles_fried_supports_obama/
http://donklephant.com/2008/10/25/another-obamacan-charles-fried/
http://www.politico.com/blogs/bensmith/1008/The_Fried_endorsement.html#comments
http://washingtonindependent.com/14860/mccain-adviser-endorses-obama
I also noticed that you set the record straight
"Fried writes to TNR: I admire Senator McCain and was glad to help in
his campaign, and to be listed as doing so; but when I concluded that
I must vote for Obama for the reason stated in my letter, I felt it
wrong to appear to be recommending to others a vote that I was not
prepared to cast myself. So it was more of an erasure than a public
affirmation--although obviously my vote meant that I thought that
Obama was preferable to McCain-Palin. I do not consider abstention a
proper option. "
Posted: Friday, October 24, 2008 12:40 PM
http://blogs.tnr.com/tnr/blogs/the_plank/archive/2008/10/24/reagan-appointee-and-recent-mccain-adviser-charles-fried-supports-obama.aspx
With regards to my letter to Obama in 2004 before most folks ever
heard his name I must say that although Barak Obama has never answered
me I truly believe he used the material I sent him against his fellow
Democrats in order to be chosen as the keynote speaker at the
Democratic National Convention in Boston while I was running in the
election of the 39 Parliament. I was not one bit surprised to find
myself falsly imprisoned in Massachusetts under the charges of
"Other"
as soon as I returned to the USA and stood in court on October 1st,
2004. To put it blumtly I believe you made a mistake to vote for Obama
in this wicked election. Now that the Democrats can use your name in
some sort of "October Surprise" McCain must be wondering who his
friends are within his own legal dept. In my humble opinion for what
it is worth you were indeed very wise to exit stage left before the
McCain Campaign implodes byway of its own actions.
In closing and far more importantly for the benefit of people involved
in ridiculous wars and my little Clan's rights and interests I must
point to our affairs your State of the US Union. I have no doubt
whatsoever that you knew of my wife's malicious cousin Charles J.
Kickham Jr. (he did sit on the Board of Governers of Harvard Law and
was President of the Massachusttes Bar association twice). What you
may not know is why my family and I sued Kickham many of his cohorts
within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in 2002 long before Mitt
Romney was elected your Governor while one of his predecessors Paul
Cellucci was Ambassador to Canada and trying hard to talk my
nativeland into going to War with Iraq for the benefit of his bosses
George W. Bush and Colin Powell.
All Canadians should read paragraph 16 beginning on page 31 very
closely. Clearly I knew what I must do long before I did it EH Rex
Murphy and Mike Duffy?
http://www.scribd.com/doc/5352030/Politicians-and-lawyers-should-read-paragraph-16
All Yankees should check the date on these judgements. Clearly George
W. Bush and I had a very serious problem with the integrity of his
executive offices long before the War in Iraq began.
http://www.scribd.com/doc/3024745/Judgments
Please consider carefully the things I have pointed out to you ASAP
Profeeser Fried and feel free to contact me at 506 756 8687 in order
to explain matters more thoroughly to you. the Newfy on CBC right now
Rex Murphy can feel free to do the same. I am tired of trying to call
him and being laughed at when I do managed to get through. His show is
now going off the air and the last caller came from the very town I
was born Sackville New Brunswick, the same town where that the General
Counsel of the Board of Bar Overseers Michael Fredrickson taught
briefly. (did ya notice I sued him too?). My fellow Canadian I believe
his name was Eric is pointing out to all the true problem It seems
that he forgot who he truly works for. A former Solicitor General of
the USA should understand my indignation and frustration towards the
nonsense of it all.
Veritas Vincit
David Raymond Amos
http://www.law.harvard.edu/faculty/directory/index.html?id=21
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&rls=com.microsoft%3A*&q=%22Charles+j.+Kickham+Jr.%22&btnG=Search
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: David Amos <david.raymond.amos@gmail.com>
Date: Sat, Oct 25, 2008 at 11:21 PM
Subject: Hey Ron Paul and Dennnis Kucinich we should talk ASAP EH?
To: victory@ronpaulforcongress.com, info@kucinich.us,
pat@jimtrakas.org, godutch@dutchforcongress.com,
rich@richardmatthews.org, ddeabler@npr.org,
lmcgann@washingtonindependent.com, Dan Fitzgerald <danf@danf.net>
Cc: frank@frankforpresident.org, peterj@politicalcommunity.us,
martin.avila@lawsonforcongress.com, info@priceforcongress.com,
syndication@csmonitor.com
I must confess to be fair to you that I would find a certain joy in
stress testing the ethics of the your adversary of old the lefty
lawyer Charles "Lefty" Morris. However i am not certain he is still
kicking after all these years. If anyone mentions my name in the media
and causes the shit to hit the fan with a rather profound October
surprise methinks he/she will become a rather famous person and indeed
a true champion of the common man in short order. If that person
happened to be a lawyer their brothers of the bar may curse their name
for eternity but the biggest surprise would come to me. After all the
lawyers I have crossed paths with over the years I have given up on
the pipe dream of finding an ethical one. However what the hell I can
still dream? One might go for the brass ring I am dangling to suit his
own greedy ends. Everybody hates lawyers and bankers anyway. They
might as well learn to hate each other. EH Mr. Paul?
That said as you well know I talked to many of your political
associates when you sought a presidential nomination last year then
came close to losing your local nomination. Remember? Today I talked
to some of your other newfound friends for strange little third
parties. Here is my number once again 506 756 8687 just in case you or
anyone else decides to have a decent conversation with a rather fierce
but fun loving ethical Canadian politcal animal before folks caste
their votes and hope for the best South of the 49th..
As you well know Mr. Paul I sent you hard copy of my material in
August of 2007 and you did receive a great deal more documents etc
than Dennis Kucinich revieved from me 5 years ago and long before the
bankers got themselves in hot water once again. CORRECT? Best check
the links before you call me a liar sir. Never forget Dennis Kucinich
answered me in 2003 when he made his prior bid for presidential office
and I sent you the proof of that fact too byway of the aforementioned
Hard Copy in the confirmed US Mail . EH?
http://www.scribd.com/doc/5352095/Tony-Merchant-and-Yankees
Furthemore as I tore our Canadian politicians brand new arseholes
before the writ was dropped up here for the 40th Parliament and the
RCMP opted to harassed me some more I do mention you in the following
Youtube if only just in passing right show some of the documents as
well.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ga2phTOe9es
It seems that you Yankees don't matter to me much but why don't you
do the right thing for your benefit if not the the people you
represent before the light dawns on a lawyer like Lefty's old
marblehead that there is another lawyer/banker/writer dude named
Charlie Morris who claims to knows it all? Guess where I am gonna blog
this email for shits and giggles?
http://washingtonindependent.com/12260/the-feds-ballooning-credit-extensions
We shall see if the "Independent" understands its rights under the
1st
Amendment. They are my words not theirs posted within their blog and
anyone can sue me if they dare to call me a liar. Rest asured I stand
by my every word and have the evidence to back them up. Scroll down to
see a bit of proof that it is true.
I already know for a fact that NPR ain't worth a good god damn and I
can prove that too. Ask their old ombudsman from CBC days before you
doubt me. I saved his emails as well.
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=89123972
Veritas Vincit
David Raymond Amos
P.S. Sometimes religious folks report some truths. Too bad they don't
tell it all EH?
http://www.csmonitor.com/2008/0303/p02s01-uspo.html
"Meanwhile, the 2008 campaign is producing unusually high numbers of
credible primary challengers. Reps. Ron Paul (R) of Texas and Dennis
Kucinich (D) of Ohio curtailed their presidential campaigns to shore
up support in Tuesday primary races – and the congressional primary
season, unlike the presidential primary period, is just beginning.
"We've already seen as many incumbents knocked off in primary
elections so far this year as were defeated in all of 2006," says
David Wasserman, who analyzes House races for the Cook Political
Report. "It's a 'change' election, so primary challengers have
more
leeway to establish viability through fundraising and through
messaging."
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: David Amos <david.raymond.amos@gmail.com>
Date: Sat, 25 Oct 2008 13:16:38 -0300
Subject: Perhaps Cynthia McKinney and the Green Party will listen to
the truth now EH John Judge?
To: press-secretary@runcynthiarun.org, pwolf@mckinney08news.com,
lucy@runcynthiarun.org, tmuhammad2003@yahoo.com, kat@txgreens.org,
zenblews@hotmail.com
Cc: podonnell2020@sbcglobal.net, rroguski@plaind.com, rmezger@plaind.com
From: PAUL O'DONNELL <PODONNEL@plaind.com>
Date: Sat, 25 Oct 2008 11:22:43 -0400
Subject: Re: Fwd: Your weekend newsman named Mikey just hung up on
me??? (Time to move on)
To: David Amos <david.raymond.amos@gmail.com>
As of Friday, Oct. 10, I no longer work at The Plain Dealer.
If your email concerns news, please contact deputy business editors
Randy Roguski at rroguski@plaind.com and Roger Mezger at
rmezger@plaind.com.
I can be contacted through my personal email at podonnell2020@sbcglobal.net.
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: David Amos <david.raymond.amos@gmail.com>
Date: Sat, 25 Oct 2008 12:01:23 -0300
Subject: Your weekend newsman named Mikey just hung up on me???
To: homerbrickey@theblade.com, jchavez@theblade.com,
gpakulski@theblade.com, lvellequette@theblade.com
Cc: mmori@toledoblade.com, mbartell@theblade.com, sigov@theblade.com,
royhab@theblade.com, jzerbey@toledoblade.com, kfranck@theblade.com
As most of you now know I did not hesitate and called many of you right back.
http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/section?Category=CONTACT
The Toledo Blade Company,
541 N. Superior St.,
Toledo, OH 43660 ,
(419) 724-6000
I know you people don't love Canadians but everybody loves their
money. Correct?Maybe some other newsman will read this today. Who
knows?
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: David Amos <david.raymond.amos@gmail.com>
Date: Sat, 25 Oct 2008 11:38:08 -0300
Subject: RE the pending election and the US Treasury Dept
To: mmclaughlin@theblade.com
Cc: luannsharp@theblade.com, info@marcykaptur.com
Anyone can feel free to call me and have me explain this email. I am
tired of trying to talk to rude people who don't care about their own
Democracy.
506 756 8687
I am who I say I am and here is a little proof of that fact.
http://www.scribd.com/doc/2718120/Integrity-Yea-Right
FYI Although the transcript and webcasts of this very important Senate
Hearing have evaporated from the Congressional Record of the USA
http://banking.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?Fuseaction=Hearings.Detail&HearingID=102e41a1-f540-4ce5-a701-b6d09b7606b1
http://banking.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?Fuseaction=Hearings.Detail&HearingID=90f8e691-9065-4f8c-a465-72722b47e7f2
Clearly I have my copy EH?
http://www.scribd.com/doc/5362918/Senate-hearing
Everybody knows why I must keep good records here is alittle proof as to why
http://www.scribd.com/doc/3870274/politicians
http://www.scribd.com/doc/2897496/IRS
http://www.scribd.com/doc/2897476/Form-211
http://www.scribd.com/doc/5352030/Politicians-and-lawyers-should-read-paragraph-16
http://www.scribd.com/doc/2619437/CROSS-BORDER-
http://www.scribd.com/doc/3024745/Judgments
http://www.scribd.com/doc/3024834/FBI
http://www.scribd.com/doc/3373579/FBI-Insurance
http://www.scribd.com/doc/5352051/Joey-Biden-and-his-pals
http://www.scribd.com/doc/5051732/The-IRS-locked-this-guy-up-ask-yourself-why
http://www.scribd.com/doc/5362629/911-lawsuit
http://www.scribd.com/doc/5051668/Al-Gore-and-the-boys
http://www.scribd.com/doc/5051615/Inspector-General-treasury
http://www.scribd.com/doc/6117370/Special-Counsell
http://www.scribd.com/doc/2619608/Upper-Canadians
http://www.scribd.com/doc/2619629/big-canada-add
http://www.scribd.com/doc/2720245/Barry-ADA
Veritas Vincit
David Raymond Amos
From: readerservice@nytimes.com
Date: Sat, 25 Oct 2008 08:02:12 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: To our New York Times reader
To: David.Raymond.Amos@gmail.com
Thank you for writing to us. Your message has been received and will
be forwarded to the reporter you contacted. Please note that messages
are delivered once per day, at 8 a.m. (EST). Because of the high
volume of responses we get from readers, not all communications can be
responded to personally. But be assured that we want to hear your
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Please ask CHMA if they can make tonight’s meeting accessible via Zoom.
Thanks!
I attended tonight’s session for an hour but cameras and audio recordings were forbidden by the US-based corporation that is fronting this project. There is no public record.