CBRM considering task force to get Sydney harbour ready for coming offshore wind industry
The Cape Breton Regional Municipality is looking towards the future with the potential creation of an offshore wind task force to capitalize on business opportunities in Sydney harbour. CBRM Coun. Steve Parsons, who is also a member of the federal offshore wind assessment committee for Nova Scotia, highlighted the province’s goal of generating five gigawatts of electricity from turbines at sea by 2033. To prepare for this, Parsons emphasized the need for a task force now to ensure that the region is ready.
Parsons stressed the importance of getting the region’s supply chains, infrastructure, training, and labor component prepared over the next nine years. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive understanding of the region’s capabilities and what needs to be developed in order to support the offshore wind industry effectively. Parsons pointed out that while Atlantic Canada Bulk Terminal is already handling steel offshore wind turbine parts in Sydney harbour, additional infrastructure such as larger wharfs will be necessary to support the industry’s growth.
Drawing inspiration from the success of the Strait of Canso offshore wind task force, Parsons suggested that CBRM could establish a similar model to create an offshore wind center of excellence for research and development. He emphasized the importance of collaboration rather than competition among ports in supporting the industry as a whole. Mayor Cecil Clarke expressed support for the idea of a local task force but emphasized the need to align with the provincial government’s plans.
Officials from the Cape Breton Partnership also expressed readiness to establish a CBRM offshore wind task force, noting interest from European stakeholders in the industry. CEO Tyler Mattheis highlighted the long-term development timeline of the offshore wind industry, with potential turbines in the water by the early 2030s. The organization is prepared to engage with local government and business officials to discuss supply chain opportunities and ensure that the region is well-positioned to benefit from the emerging industry.
As discussions progress with the provincial Energy Department and Nova Scotia Power, the establishment of an offshore wind task force in CBRM could pave the way for strategic planning and collaboration to maximize the region’s potential in the offshore wind industry. The future looks promising for Cape Breton as it positions itself to capitalize on this renewable energy opportunity.
