Nova Scotia

Bear Head LNG approved to develop natural gas export site in Point Tupper

The N.S. government is allowing Bear Head LNG Corporation to continue developing a natural gas facility at Point Tupper in Richmond County.

The Department of the Environment announced the go-ahead decision Tuesday

The N.S. government is allowing Bear Head LNG Corporation to continue developing a natural gas facility at Point Tupper in Richmond County.  

The Department of the Environment announced the go-ahead decision Tuesday.

The company filed an export licence application with Canada's National Energy Board in November 2014. In addition, it filed an application with the U.S. Department of Energy for authorization to export natural gas to Canada for a 25-year period.

The company purchased the Point Tupper site from Anadarko Global Holdings Company in August for $11 million.

The approval is restricted by 32 terms and conditions for greenhouse-gas emissions, noise and potential impacts to wildlife, water, wetlands and transportation.  In addition, Bear Head LNG must consult with a community liaison committee consisting of municipal, Mi'kmaq and public representatives.

Construction is expected to begin next year, with operations to start in 2019.  The site will be primarily used to export natural gas.