Creation Covenant Alliance

Legislation Paves the Way for Offshore Wind Development in Atlantic Canada

A new Canadian law enables offshore wind projects in Atlantic Canada, boosting jobs and investment opportunities.
New Law Opens Path for Offshore Wind Development in Atlantic Canada

New legislation enabling offshore wind projects in Atlantic Canada has received Royal Assent from the Canadian government and is now active.

Bill C-49 expands the responsibilities of offshore boards in Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador to include renewable energy projects, ensuring a unified regulatory approach in federally and provincially managed areas.

“Bill C-49 enables Atlantic Canada to seize the generational economic opportunity presented by offshore renewable energy. It will strengthen the economy, enable the creation of thousands of jobs and attract billions in investments in Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador,” said Canada’s Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Jonathan Wilkinson.

The law supports offshore wind development in Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador. As part of the Atlantic Accord, both provinces are required to enact similar legislation. Nova Scotia has already done so.

The province plans to launch a competition next year for offshore land leases, aiming to install wind turbines to generate 5 GW of power—sufficient for approximately 1.5 million homes.

“Investors are lining up to harness our wind power and produce clean energy for green hydrogen and other uses. Now that this bill has passed, along with our provincial mirror legislation, we are well on our way to developing our offshore wind industry with our federal partners, starting with issuing our first call for bids next year,” stated Tory Rushton, Minister of Natural Resources and Renewables, Government of Nova Scotia.

In Newfoundland and Labrador, the Canadian government funded a project using floating wind turbines to power oil and gas assets in 2021, among several others aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions from offshore oil and gas operations.

Bill C-49 introduces amendments to the Accord Acts to establish a framework for developing offshore renewable energy.

It also renames the Canada-Nova Scotia Offshore Petroleum Board to the Canada-Nova Scotia Offshore Energy Regulatory (CNSOER) and the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Offshore Petroleum Board to the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Offshore Energy Regulator (C-NLOER).

The mandates of both regulators are expanded to oversee offshore renewable energy projects.

Original Story at www.offshorewind.biz

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Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024