Canada is developing and rolling out clean energy and clean technologies faster than ever before to create good-paying jobs, attract global investment in our economy, position Canada as the clean energy supplier of choice for our democratic allies and achieve our ambitious climate targets.
By moving thoughtfully and strategically, Atlantic Canada is well positioned to drive progress toward a clean electricity grid and seize the enormous economic opportunity presented by the clean economy. Independent experts estimate that Atlantic Canada will see approximately 100,000 new good jobs in clean energy by mid-century.
This week, the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities and Member of Parliament for Central Nova Scotia, announced a $9.25 million investment through the Energy Innovation Program for two projects led by Net Zero Atlantic (NZA). These projects aim to develop offshore wind energy and bring forward more clean technologies in the Atlantic region to decarbonize the region’s electricity grid and supply the affordable, reliable and clean energy needed.
Of this funding, $6 million will support the Atlantic Canada Offshore Wind Integration and Transmission Study. In partnership with the Atlantic provinces, NZA is managing the delivery of a comprehensive electricity system integration study that will evaluate how electricity produced from Atlantic Canada’s offshore wind resources can help clean up the regional electricity grid. Secondly, it will identify opportunities to export made-in-Canada renewable electricity and clean hydrogen.
Additionally, $3.25 million will fund the Net Zero Emerging Concepts and Technologies Research Program, which will invest in research and development for new clean technologies and support measures in Atlantic Canada to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and reach emission targets.
Canada is moving quickly to integrate offshore wind power into its expanding energy mix and invest in the technology research that is vital for economic development and environmental sustainability.