New Legislation Would Support N.B. Heavy Industry Carbon Tax

Large industrial emitters of greenhouse gases in New Brunswick may soon be subject to the province’s carbon pricing plan instead of the federal plan.

New legislation introduced this week would allow for the transition from the federal system the provincial plan.

The provincial plan was formally approved by the federal government nearly two months ago.

“Our output-based pricing system for large emitters is the best approach for New Brunswick because it recognizes the unique challenges our large emitters face while ensuring the province continues to be a national leader in reducing greenhouse gas emissions,” Environment Minister Gary Crossman said in a news release.

“These amendments will ensure that New Brunswick facilities which voluntarily opted-in to the federal system can have the same opportunity under the provincial system.”

Under the provincial system, large industrial emitters would have to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions intensity by 10 per cent by 2030.

The province said its plan aims to reduce emissions while ensuring provincial industries are not at a competitive disadvantage.

New Brunswick’s system is consistent with the other Canadian output-based pricing systems including Saskatchewan, Alberta, Newfoundland and Labrador, said the province.

“We are waiting for the federal government to give us a start date on the provincial system to make sure that we have a New Brunswick output-based pricing system in place and operating as soon as possible,” said Crossman.

Until that happens, large emitters are still subject to the federal system.