Under Premier Tim Houston’s leadership Nova Scotia is seizing an opportunity to build a new industry around one of its greatest natural strengths: the wind off our coast.
A $100-million investment announced today, October 15, will support the research and data needed to advance offshore wind development. It is another step toward attracting private investment, creating good-paying jobs and building Nova Scotia into a global clean energy superpower.
“Nova Scotia is no longer at the end of the energy transmission line – we are the starting point. Today’s announcement is another important step toward making Nova Scotia a global leader in offshore wind. By working together with the federal government, we are unlocking a generational economic opportunity that will attract investment, create good-paying jobs and strengthen our economy,” said Premier Tim Houston, who is also Minister of Energy. “We aren’t just protecting our own grid, we are powering Canada. This partnership positions Nova Scotia to compete on the world stage while building a cleaner, more prosperous future for our province and future generations.”
Nova Scotia’s offshore winds are among the strongest and most consistent in the world. The new research will gather wind, weather and ocean data to help plan projects and give investors the information they need to move forward.
This work will also help lay the foundation for Wind West and support the province’s goal of licensing up to five gigawatts of offshore wind energy by 2030. The first phase has the potential to attract $60 billion in private investment, with opportunities for Nova Scotians in construction, marine services, ports, manufacturing, engineering, technology and the skilled trades.
“History teaches us that Nova Scotia has always prospered when it has embraced its maritime advantages. The Age of Sail transformed a small Atlantic province into a globally connected trading hub. Today, offshore wind offers the chance to build a similarly transformative industry, creating jobs, attracting investment, strengthening communities and supporting long-term economic growth,” said Premier Houston.
From Sydney to Yarmouth, offshore wind could help build careers and prosperity for generations to come. Our PC government is working to turn that potential into opportunity and protect our future.