Canada’s first four offshore wind energy areas have been designated, the federal government confirmed this week.
The four areas, all located in Nova Scotia, mark a “key step to develop an offshore wind industry that will provide long-term energy security and generational economic benefits for Nova Scotians,” according to a statement from the Province.
“The identification of wind energy areas off the coast of Nova Scotia is a significant step forward towards unlocking our renewable energy potential,” remarked Tim Hodgson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources. “We are moving quickly to deliver on our commitment to advance offshore wind, create clean jobs, and support our long-term energy security.”
The designated areas—French Bank, Middle Bank, Sable Island Bank, and Sydney Bight—will eventually produce up to five gigawatts of wind energy.
Nova Scotia features “some of the top wind speeds in the world,” notes Premier Tim Houston, who believes the province “has the potential to become a clean energy superpower.”
“With the right infrastructure, we’ll have the opportunity to send our wind west to power other parts of Canada,” Houston said. “By becoming an energy exporter, we can secure long-term prosperity for Nova Scotians.”
The four sites were selected from an original eight through a multi-step process, which included public input.
Moving forward, companies wanting to build offshore wind projects will participate in a “competitive licencing process” managed by the Canada-Nova Scotia Offshore Energy Regulator.
“Designating these areas tells industry that it’s time to go, it’s time to get ready for the first call for bids, and it’s time to invest in Nova Scotia,” says Trevor Boudreau, the province’s Minister of Energy. “We’re moving forward to seize the full potential of our offshore energy resources.”
After the first round of licences are awarded, other areas will be considered for expansion.