Northern Pulp Nova Scotia Corp. will complete a $22-million refit of its Abercrombie Point pulp mill with subcontractors after the Atlanta-based lead engineer withdrew from the installation phase.

“We have the required qualified subcontractors here, and we’ve maintained the key people involved with the project,” Bruce Chapman, plant operations manager, said Tuesday.

Clyde Bergemann Power Group pulled out of the project unexpectedly last week just as preparations were underway for a May installation of a new electrostatic precipitator for the recovery boiler.

“A significant amount of work is already completed, and we have a 10-storey electrostatic precipitator here about ready for installation during a May shutdown,” Chapman said.

Clyde Bergemann was supposed to provide a “turnkey solution,” including engineering, design, supply and installation of the new system.

The installation was supposed to include the unit itself, ductwork, foundation, structural steel and other related components.

“We were disappointed to receive a letter Thursday from Clyde Bergemann indicating they were withdrawing from the final installation phase,” Chapman said.

A deal was struck between subcontractors and Northern Pulp over the weekend and the project resumed Monday.

Chapman said it was too early to speculate on any legal ramifications of the move by Clyde Bergemann, known around the world for its work in the field.

The new electrostatic precipitator recovers heat and chemicals used in pulp production and reinjects them into production.

Northern Pulp said previously there will be an immediate reduction in the plume in the sky around the plant when the technology is implemented.

Planning for a new precipitator at the plant began when Paper Excellence acquired Northern Pulp in 2011.

Qualified Maritime subcontractors and tradespeople will see the installation of the system through to completion, Chapman said.

“We remain on schedule for completion in May.”

Clyde Bergemann Power Group in Atlanta did not respond Tuesday to a request for an interview about the Nova Scotia project and its decision to withdraw on short notice.

Northern Pulp has been at odds with the province recently over strict new environmental controls and Premier Stephen McNeil said Tuesday he expected the company to consult with Clyde Bergemann to ensure the plant meets the requirements.

“We’re hoping Northern Pulp and their supplier can get an agreement in place,” McNeil said.