Wind energy is the most cost-effective energy in Canada now. The project will help us keep our rates stable for our customers and community. Energy that is generated by the wind is charged at a fixed cost over the lifetime of the project, whereas other energy sources such as fossil fuels have a variable cost. Wind energy will help us stabilise energy rates for our customers.  

It is a green and renewable source of energy which will help us reduce our carbon footprint. In addition, the project will help our community, city and province by making a considerable economic contribution to the area.  

The project will make our grid greener. Once operational, the Burchill wind farm is set to generate enough electricity for approximately 15% of Saint John’s energy supply.  

Additionally, it will increase energy security for Saint John residents and New Brunswickers by reducing New Brunswick’s dependence on imported energy sources. 

Wind is one of the lowest-priced energy sources available today. Unlike fossil fuels, wind energy has a fixed price over a long period of time (i.e. 25 years). Wind energy mitigates the uncertainty associated with the price uncertainty of traditional energy sources. 

Prior to deciding the location, Natural Forces and Saint John Energy considered areas that naturally have higher wind speeds. Lorneville was chosen as the location due to its elevation, optimal wind speeds, and the industrial nature of the surrounding area. 

It is unlikely that the wind farm would reduce the value of your home. Several studies have been carried out and there is no statistical evidence to suggest that operating wind farms have a measurable impact on home sale prices (Source: CANWEA). More info here.

A study carried out by Health Canada in 2014 investigated the health effects of wind turbine noise. This study found that wind turbine noise was not associated with self-reported sleep, illness or stress levels. A summary of these results can be reviewed on the Health Canada Environmental and Workplace Health page.

All energy supply options can have adverse environmental impacts. Occasionally, birds and bats are killed in collisions with wind turbines. Natural Forces have taken this into consideration- the wind farm design, turbine locations and project operations have been carefully considered to keep potential harm to a minimum. See more info here.

Since wind turbines are large mechanical pieces of equipment, they are expected to produce some noise. However, as wind turbine technology has evolved, the sound emitted by wind turbines has decreased. In current designs the mechanical noise is almost obsolete. Natural Forces estimate that surrounding residences are not expected to experience above the regulated limit of 40dB (for reference, the compressor of a refrigerator produces 40-45 dB of noise). 

Shadow flicker is created when the sun is at a certain angle behind the turbine. When the sun shines through the blades, the movement of the blades can cause a shadow that flickers on and off as the blades rotate.  

The Province of New Brunswick requires that wind energy projects not to exceed 30 minutes/day or 30 hours/year of shadow flicker at any residence.  

Following the impact assessments, Natural Forces do not anticipate surrounding residences will be affected by a shadow flicker levels at or above the regulated limits. Assessments showed that the majority of residences will not be impacted at all (Source: Natural Forces).   

No, the Burchill wind project is going to be built on Crown Land, owned by the Province of New Brunswick. While the project is in operation, the land will still be owned by the Province.

Natural Forces own the wind turbines. Saint John Energy will purchase the power generated from the wind farm from Natural Forces. 

Natural Forces have studied climatic data (including historic data) and have used this to select turbines that will withstand the wind and weather in the Saint John area.  

The turbines will be equipped with ice detection sensors which stop the turbine if there is ice buildup on the blades. This avoids ice-throw and protects the turbine. Ice can add significant weight to the blades and may cause damage if they are left operating in these conditions. The sensors will ensure that this does not occur. 

The wind is not always present which creates variability. The New Brunswick grid consists of a large number of interconnected transmission lines that connect us to a variety of generation sources from our wholesale energy supplier NB Power. The interconnected power system allows us to pull on other forms of energy as needed. 

As with most power lines, the distribution lines will be in proximity to residential areas and businesses. This is necessary to supply power to customers where they live and work. Required setbacks and height requirements will be followed and the best safety and environment practices available.

We are not aware of any potential negative health effects that the distribution lines and substations could have on residents.  

We currently have 14 substations in the city, many are close to residential property and there have been no reported health concerns that we are aware of. 

Yes, the construction of the wind farm will create around 100 temporary construction positions. These positions will be held by local-subcontractors hired by Natural Forces, which will act as the General Contractor during the construction phase of the project. Plus, approximately 5 full-time jobs will be created. 

In addition, the construction of new substations, upgrade of existing substations and construction of distribution line will create temporary employment for a number of local contractors.

For more information on the project, please contact Amy Pellerin, Senior Development Manager at Natural Forces (apellerin@naturalforces.ca).