NB Power has moved its plan to convert the Belledune Generating Station from coal to sustainably sourced advanced pellets into the implementation phase after securing agreements with Canadian suppliers for the fuel required for the project, Biomass Magazine reported.
The agreements, approved by NB Power’s Board of Directors in August 2026, secure the majority of the fuel supply needed for the station’s conversion and future operations. The advanced pellets will be produced from wood and agricultural hemp biomass.
The project is aimed at helping NB Power meet federal requirements to phase out coal-fired generation by 2030 while maintaining the reliability of electricity supplies for customers.
“The Board’s approval and the signing of these supply agreements move this project from planning into execution,” said Lori Clark, President and CEO of NB Power. “These milestones give us confidence in the path forward as we continue working to maintain reliable service for customers while preparing for a future without coal.”
The proposed conversion follows several years of technical studies, fuel testing and project development. NB Power identified the conversion to advanced pellets as the preferred option for maintaining Belledune’s contribution to New Brunswick’s electricity system while complying with federal regulations.
Belledune is currently the most greenhouse-gas-intensive generating station in NB Power’s fleet. Following the conversion, the station is expected to become the utility’s largest renewable generator.
The conversion would also allow the generating station to continue operating beyond 2030, preserving an important source of generation capacity while supporting reliability, energy security and a more sustainable electricity system.
The biomass fuel will be sourced through established Canadian forestry and wood-processing supply chains as well as sustainable agricultural activities. The fuel will be required to meet recognised sustainability standards and applicable regulatory requirements.
The project is also expected to support economic activity in northern New Brunswick, with potential benefits for industries including forestry, agriculture, trucking, rail and shipping.
NB Power said it would continue engaging with local communities, Indigenous rights holders and other stakeholders as the project advances. Their input has contributed to project planning and will continue to inform implementation.
With Board approval and fuel supply agreements now in place, the project will enter its next phase, covering engineering, procurement and site preparation. This work will include continued fuel testing, equipment upgrades and preparations for long-term biomass operation.
“This is an important step forward,” Clark said. “There is still work ahead, but these milestones provide a strong foundation as we continue the transition away from coal while maintaining the reliable electricity that New Brunswickers depend on.”
The Belledune Clean Fuel Project is expected to enable the generating station to operate beyond 2030 while preserving an important source of electricity generation capacity for customers in New Brunswick.
