Non-hazardous oil released at Mactaquac Generating Station

2021-09-19

Fredericton, N.B. – An equipment failure in one of the turbine hubs at the Mactaquac Generating Station resulted in the release of non-hazardous, biodegradable Teresso 32 lubricating oil into the St. John River.

Boat crews assessed the river, and the oil sheen is contained between downstream of the Mactaquac Dam and Fredericton. Cleanup has started and is ongoing.

The assessment did not show any signs that wildlife had been impacted. Teresso 32 is non-hazardous, is not expected to be harmful to aquatic organisms, and is biodegradable.

“At NB Power, we are committed to the protection of the environment and take situations such as this one very seriously. As such, we started addressing the leak as soon as possible and we are advising the public out of respect for those who live and work near the river,” said NB Power’s Senior Vice President of Operations, Lori Clark.

NB Power immediately reported the release to federal and provincial environmental authorities, as well as the Kingsclear First Nation.

MEDIA CONTACT: Sheila Lagacé, Communications, 506-458-2345 or SLagace@nbpower.com