The Canada-Nova Scotia Offshore Energy Regulator (CNSOER) has received joint strategic direction from Canada and Nova Scotia to start the process of issuing a call for bids for offshore wind projects in their offshore area.
Following the recent designation of wind energy areas (WEAs), this marks a significant step toward Canada’s first offshore wind project.
The regulator will now initiate a prequalification process and a call for information to attract qualified investments, allowing public, Indigenous groups, and stakeholders to influence the development path.
“Offshore wind is transformative for Nova Scotia. We’re excited to begin the first call for bids to utilize this natural resource for all Nova Scotians, and trust the regulator to lead this effort,” said Trevor Boudreau, Nova Scotia Minister of Energy.
“We’re also pleased our federal partners recognize Wind West as a nation-building project and look forward to delivering clean energy from offshore winds to markets in need.”
Last week, the Canadian government announced that the Major Projects Office (MPO) will work on strategies to accelerate projects of national importance, including Wind West Atlantic Energy.
“By advancing projects like Wind West Atlantic Energy, Canada is creating jobs, unlocking economic opportunities, and building a resilient Canada. The Major Projects Office will streamline processes to deliver necessary infrastructure efficiently,” said Dominic LeBlanc, president of the King’s Privy Council for Canada.
In July, the government and Nova Scotia designated the first four offshore wind areas, which will be included in the initial call for bids later this year.
Three areas are south of Nova Scotia’s eastern mainland, while the fourth is east of Cape Breton Island.
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