Province Reviews Delivery of Compressed Natural Gas
The province is doing a review that could lead to more customers in Nova Scotia having access to the benefits of natural gas, Minister of Energy Charlie Parker announced today, April 18.
"Natural gas is a key part of Nova Scotia's energy strategy," said Mr. Parker. "We have businesses interested in offering this service and customers ready to sign up. What we don't have is a clear set of rules for them to operate under, and that's what this review is about."
New technology makes it more economical to deliver compressed natural gas by truck to areas not served by the province's pipeline system. The review will help such deliveries happen.
Natural gas distribution regulations in Nova Scotia grant Heritage Gas exclusive pipeline deliveries in defined areas. However, the regulations are not clear whether compressed natural gas is included.
External consultant Bill Lahey will lead a focused review of market and regulatory conditions and recommend how a compressed natural gas industry in Nova Scotia should operate. Mr. Lahey is an associate law professor at Dalhousie University, and former deputy minister of Environment and Labour. He has experience with energy-related issues throughout the province, and serves on the board of directors of the Efficiency Nova Scotia Corporation.
The province will propose regulatory or legislative changes, based on recommendations of the review.
"The goal of this review is to provide clarity to potential market participants about who can get into this business and under what conditions," said Mr. Parker. "We want to ensure the compressed natural gas option is developed with the best interests of Nova Scotians in mind. Natural gas is cleaner burning than other fossil fuels and very competitively priced."
The review will take place over the next few weeks and include meetings with potential proponents and customers. A white paper outlining the options being considered is available at www.gov.ns.ca/energy . Written comments will be accepted until May 11.