Electricity generation, distribution top source of 2022 N.S. greenhouse gas emissions: StatsCan

Electricity generation, transmission, and distribution were identified as the primary source of greenhouse gas emissions in Nova Scotia in 2022, as per Statistics Canada’s latest annual report on emissions from economic activities. This industry alone accounted for 40.5% of the province’s total emissions, highlighting the significant impact of fossil fuels on the environment.

Badia Nehme, an energy coordinator at the Ecology Action Centre, emphasized that the reliance on fossil fuels, particularly coal, for power generation plays a major role in the high emissions levels. She noted that coal is one of the most polluting forms of energy generation, contributing to the province’s carbon footprint.

Although there has been a decrease in the use of coal for power generation since 2005, with Nova Scotia Power stating that coal was used 55% of the time back then, the utility is mandated by law to phase out coal entirely by 2030. Additionally, Nova Scotia Power aims to generate 80% of its electricity from renewable sources by the same year.

To achieve these targets, Nova Scotia Power plans to retire two coal-fired units by 2028 and convert others to natural gas or heavy fuel oil. While these measures are steps in the right direction, Nehme expressed concerns about the slow transition to renewable energy in the province.

Despite the challenges, there have been some positive developments, such as the use of the Maritime Link to import hydroelectricity from Labrador and the integration of new wind resources, leading to a decrease in coal utilization rates. Currently, renewable energy accounts for over 40% of power generation in Nova Scotia.

While Nova Scotia Power’s efforts to green the grid have been deemed appropriate by the Utility and Review Board, the timeline for achieving these goals remains tight. Nevertheless, Nova Scotia has made significant progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, with a 40% decrease from 2009 to 2022, largely attributed to the changes in the electric power generation industry.

Household emissions, particularly from home heating and vehicle fuels, were identified as the second-largest source of emissions in the province. It is important to note that Statistics Canada’s emissions data focuses on economic activities and differs from Environment and Climate Change Canada’s national greenhouse gas emissions inventory.

In conclusion, the transition to renewable energy in Nova Scotia is crucial for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change. While there are challenges ahead, continued efforts to phase out coal and increase renewable energy sources will be essential for a sustainable future.