Burbo wind farm, Liverpool, UK, Dong Energy
Photo by Jasper Carlberg. SNC-Lavalin
The Nova Scotia government has identified five areas that it deems suitable for the development of offshore wind farms.
The government issued a statement Friday saying the next step is seeking input from Nova Scotians before official designations are granted, a process that will wrap up April 14.
“Canada, with the world’s longest coastline, a stable regulatory environment and decades of experience in offshore energy development, is well-positioned to enter the $1-trillion global offshore wind market,” the provincial government said in a discussion paper released Friday.
“Nova Scotia’s offshore is particularly promising, with strong winds and favourable underwater conditions — including water depth and geology — to support offshore wind energy projects.”
The province’s goal is to issue licences for up to five gigawatts of electric offshore wind energy by 2030.
A regional assessment had initially recommended eight potential wind energy areas, but a further review shortened the list to five in January. The independent assessment, which started in 2023, was based on technical studies, geological surveys, environmental data, fishing activity and community feedback.
Four of the chosen wind energy areas are south of Nova Scotia’s eastern shore: French Bank, Middle Bank, Sable Island Bank and Emerald Bank. The fifth area, known as Sydney Bight, is northeast of Cape Breton. In all, these offshore areas cover more than 19,500 square kilometres.
A 25-kilometre buffer zone has been recommended from the Nova Scotia coastline and around Sable Island, a national park reserve.
“There may be circumstances where an incursion into the 25-kilometre coastal buffer may be necessary or sought,” the discussion paper says.
After the areas receive official designation, expected later this year, the Canada-Nova Scotia Offshore Energy Regulator will manage a competitive licensing process.
While offshore areas are jointly managed by the two levels of government, their work is supposed to include regular communication with Mi’kmaq First Nations, fishers, developers and communities.
“The designation of Wind Energy Areas by federal and provincial governments is meant to clarify where offshore wind development can take place in the future; it does not mean that development will take place in the area,” the discussion paper says.
“The location and size of future call for bids areas within Wind Energy Areas will be determined during the subsequent steps in the land tenure process.”
This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 14, 2025.
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