Irving Pulp & Paper to Modernize Saint John Pulp Mill in New Brunswick
Paper Recycling | 2025-09-30 12:47:55
The project is expected to generate approximately $539 million in employment income.
By Paul Ploumis
SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Irving Pulp & Paper has received a $660 million loan from the Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) to help with the extensive upgrading of its pulp mill located in west Saint John, New Brunswick.
The mill's technology from the 1970s will be replaced with the finest available modern technologies as part of the modernization project, increasing mill productivity. The additions consist of a generator, steam turbine, and recovery boiler that can generate up to 145 megawatts of renewable energy. Additionally, according to a news release from the company, the mill's excess energy will be sent to the provincial grid through a power purchase arrangement with NB Power.
It is anticipated that the "Project NextGen" pulp mill renovation project will cut emissions per tonne of Kraft mill by as much as 50%, establishing New Brunswick as a clean energy leader.
It is anticipated that the project will create about $539 million in employment income. With employment income predicted to increase by 38% in the forest products industry, the project will eventually generate over 600 new jobs throughout the forest supply chain.
The mill will rank in the top 10 worldwide producers of softwood Kraft pulp after the modernization project is finished.
POLL
How likely is it that the project will serve as a model for other Canadian mills?
Frequently Asked Questions
- How will the project impact emissions?
- The “Project NextGen” renovation is expected to cut emissions per tonne of Kraft pulp by up to 50%, making New Brunswick a clean energy leader.
- How will the project affect the mill’s global ranking?
- After modernization, the mill will be among the top 10 global producers of softwood Kraft pulp.
- How will the power purchase agreement with NB Power benefit the province?
- Excess energy generated by the mill will be supplied to the provincial grid, increasing renewable energy availability and potentially lowering electricity costs for New Brunswick residents and businesses.
