Nova Scotia shortlists 5 areas for offshore wind farms
Nova Scotia and Ottawa have made significant progress in identifying potential areas for offshore wind farms in the region. The Energy Department of Nova Scotia announced that they have selected five sites for offshore wind development: French Bank, Middle Bank, Sable Island Bank, Sydney Bight, and Western/Emerald Bank. These areas cover over 19,000 square kilometres of open water, predominantly off the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia. One of the selected areas, Sydney Bight, is located just off Cape Breton and intersects with ferry routes to Newfoundland.
Although the areas have not yet been formally designated, the province is seeking public feedback before finalizing the decision. A dedicated webpage has been set up for public engagement, with a deadline for submissions set for April 14. The Canada-Nova Scotia Offshore Energy Regulator will open bids for offshore licenses later this year, specifying parcels within the selected areas available for development.
The provincial and federal governments have been working collaboratively to establish a regulated offshore wind industry in Nova Scotia. Their goal is to issue licenses for five gigawatts of offshore wind by 2030, surpassing the province’s current electricity-generating capacity. Nova Scotia aspires to become a wind-energy exporter, contributing to the country’s clean energy goals.
Determining suitable locations for wind turbines is a crucial step that could impact developers’ interest in Nova Scotia and the potential effects on local fisheries. The five proposed areas were recommended by a committee appointed by both governments to assess the region’s offshore wind potential. Some adjustments were made to the proposed areas, with French Bank and Sydney Bight brought closer to shore. French Bank would be approximately 15 kilometres from the coast, while Sydney Bight would be less than 10 kilometres away.
French Bank and Western/Emerald Bank are designated for floating turbines, while the other three areas are suitable for fixed and floating turbines. Although the committee recommended a total of eight areas, three were excluded from the province’s proposal for further review. These areas may be reconsidered after 2030, according to a discussion paper released by the province.
The progress made in identifying potential offshore wind development areas marks a significant milestone in Nova Scotia’s renewable energy journey. By leveraging the region’s wind resources, the province aims to contribute to Canada’s transition to a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.
