Two proposed gas power plants in New Brunswick are poised to operate beyond 2035 without adhering to new federal clean electricity regulations.

The first project, a 500-megawatt gas and diesel plant in Tantramar, may qualify for a "planned unit" exemption.

This designation allows facilities with agreements signed by December 31, 2025, and construction initiated by December 31, 2027, to operate without emission limits until the end of 2049.

The second project involves a 190-megawatt gas plant in west Saint John, intended to power a data center.

If this plant operates "behind the meter," supplying electricity solely to the data center without connecting to the provincial grid, it would be exempt from the regulations.

These exemptions have sparked concerns among environmental advocates.

They argue that such loopholes could undermine efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition to cleaner energy sources.

As New Brunswick moves toward phasing out coal by 2030, the role of natural gas in the province's energy mix remains a contentious issue.

Balancing economic development with environmental responsibilities continues to challenge policymakers and stakeholders alike.