Canada is taking a major step toward renewable energy development: the federal government and the Province of Nova Scotia have announced a strategic direction for the country’s first offshore wind energy project.
The announcement was made by Minister Sean Fraser on behalf of Canada’s Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Tim Hodgson, and Nova Scotia’s Minister of Energy, Trevor Boudreau.
In July, several promising areas were designated for potential offshore wind farms: French Bank, Middle Bank, and Sable Island Bank off the coast of Nova Scotia, as well as Sydney Harbour near Cape Breton.
The regulator will now launch a pre-qualification process and release information to attract investments, while also engaging with the public, Indigenous groups, and other stakeholders. This initiative aligns with the Major Projects Office (MPO), which is working on strategies to accelerate large-scale national energy projects, including Wind West Atlantic Energy.
“Today’s announcement is another step toward making Canada a global energy supplier and securing our long-term energy future. It’s time to harness our vast wind power potential to drive prosperity and opportunities for our communities,” said Minister Hodgson.
Sean Fraser added: “In Atlantic Canada, we have the winds, the people, and the ambition to lead the clean energy transition. These projects will create good jobs, attract new investments, and deliver reliable, clean energy for today and for future generations.”
According to 2022 data, onshore wind turbines already supplied 5.7% of Canada’s total electricity generation — enough to power approximately three million typical homes.
