Proposed Gas Plant Regulations Stress Public Safety

Proposed changes to Nova Scotia's gas plant regulations have been developed to improve the safety of Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) plants in the province. The draft regulations were released for public comment today, April 5.

"There's lots of interest in developing Nova Scotia's potential as an LNG terminal," said Energy Minister Cecil Clarke, "so it's important that both the public and industry understand how government intends to allow development to occur in a way that ensures safety."

The proposed regulations will create a code of practice for LNG plant operations. The code of practice is based on a Canadian Standards Association standard for the construction, operation and decommissioning of LNG plants.

"Our code of practice means Nova Scotians can be assured that public safety will be at the core of any approval given for an LNG plant," Mr. Clarke explained. "It also means no surprises for potential LNG developers because the code of practice reflects best business practices in the LNG industry."

The draft regulations and the code of practice are available on the Department of Energy website at www.gov.ns.ca/energy or by calling 902-424-8184. Members of the public can make comments on the draft until Tuesday, April 26.