Belledune: setting our sights on the world stage

The last few years have been pivotal for the Port of Belledune and a catalyst for developing Canada’s first ever Green Energy Hub. In October, we finalized our Master Development Plan (MDP), an ambitious roadmap conceived in collaboration with partners, communities and Indigenous rights holders to tackle climate change sustainably over the next 30 years.

To this end, we signed three memorandums of understanding (MOU) last year: two in Germany with the Ports of Hamburg and Wilhelmshaven, for the import of hydrogen from Belledune beginning as early as 2027; and one with the Port of Dalhousie to collaborate on economic development opportunities for northern New Brunswick. We also entered into an agreement in principle with Cross River Infrastructure Partners (CRIP) for the development of a hydrogen facility and the integration of an ARC advanced small modular reactor (aSMR) on our site, whose 2 GW of energy will serve to produce that hydrogen, with enough left over to double New Brunswick’s nuclear-generated power capacity!

We signed three memorandums of understanding (MOU) last year: two in Germany with the Ports of Hamburg and Wilhelmshaven, for the import of hydrogen from Belledune beginning as early as 2027; and one with the Port of Dalhousie to collaborate on economic development opportunities for northern New Brunswick.

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This is an exciting time for the Port’s day-to-day operations as well. Last year saw a record number of local contractors doing business at our facility including tenders for work to complete our National Trade Corridors Fund project estimated at over $34 million. These works included: the connection of two of our terminals which has already fundamentally improved how our stevedoring partner, QSL, handles dry bulk and breakbulk cargo; and the relocation of the tug inlet to a safer and more secure location to protect against weather events. 

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Working with our communities

Following the implementation of the Impact Assessment Act in 2019, the Belledune Port Authority has created and implemented a framework with First Nations to determine the potential impacts of projects on federal lands. We have also formed a Community Liaison Committee comprising members of the provincial government, First Nations and the Port of Belledune senior leadership team. The committee meets regularly on matters concerning Port development to address any concerns about new technology, new proponents and the impacts future planning have on the lands and people in this community.

I’d also like to commend the philanthropic efforts of our staff: many Port of Belledune employees are involved in charitable activities, and continue to do so over and above their everyday commitments. From volunteering at the SPCA to serving as board members for hospital foundations and environmental stewardship organizations, I couldn’t be prouder of this team who leads their lives with the same integrity as the manner in which they carry out their work.

As we continue to move forward with plans to significantly improve our province’s energy portfolio, my thoughts go to the region’s communities who have been seeking a beacon of hope for decades now in terms of a return to environmentally-sound industry, a more stable economy and sustainable career opportunities right here at home.

The Green Energy Hub is it. And its success will depend on the collaboration and support from all levels of government including Federal, Provincial, Municipal and First Nations. In 2023, we celebrate the 5-year anniversary of our Relationship, Engagement and Consultation Protocol, which is a shining example of how to forge a path with all levels of government. 

Once commissioned, the Hub will carry future generations of New Brunswickers to prosperity while leaving an indelible mark on the world stage.