A major milestone in Nova Scotia’s energy journey was marked today, July 29, as our PC government designated four offshore wind energy areas. This landmark decision sets the stage for a new era of promising long-term energy security and generational economic benefits for the province.
The designated areas, strategically chosen for their powerful and consistent winds, include French Bank, Middle Bank, and Sable Island Bank off the mainland, along with Sydney Bight off the coast of Cape Breton.
This move is a key step in a bold plan to harness one of Nova Scotia's most abundant natural resources. Our government's vision is not just about powering the province, but about powering the country and beyond.
“With some of the top wind speeds in the world, Nova Scotia has the potential to become a clean energy superpower,” said Premier Tim Houston. “With the right infrastructure, we’ll have the opportunity to send our wind west to power other parts of Canada. By becoming an energy exporter, we can secure long-term prosperity for Nova Scotians.”
The designation of these four areas is the culmination of a careful planning and consultation process. Earlier this spring, the public was invited to provide feedback on five proposed locations. This crucial input directly shaped the final decision, leading to the selection of the four areas and slight adjustments to the size of the French Bank and Sydney Bight zones to address feedback.
With the areas now officially designated, the next step is to identify specific parcels within these zones. These parcels will be included in the first-ever call for bids, which is anticipated to launch later this year.
The ambitious goal is to have five gigawatts of offshore wind licensed by 2030. Achieving this target will not only solidify Nova Scotia's offshore wind industry but will also firmly position the province as an energy superpower.
Looking ahead, officials will revisit four other areas that were part of the initial regional assessment, including Western/Emerald Bank, which was shortlisted this spring. This ensures a robust pipeline for future development as Nova Scotia sails confidently toward its sustainable energy future.