GUYSBOROUGH – Location, location, location.
Often repeated as a key to success when it comes to real estate, restaurants and other business ventures, officials with the Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG) are optimistic that it also applies to the burgeoning renewable energy industry.
Considering its prime geographic spot – not to mention existing infrastructure – and, of course, the unlimited and quality wind resource found along its shore, they anticipate having a tremendous opportunity to play a “leading role” in its development.
“There is a significant amount of interest,” MODG Warden Vernon Pitts said, noting proponents of renewable energy projects – particularly ones keyed on the production of hydrogen – have been talking with municipal officials.
Along with its enviable location and much-sought-after resource, the MODG provides landfall (in Goldboro) for more than 200-kilometres of undersea pipeline. And, of course, there is easy access via the Strait of Canso – a deep, ice-free port that draws global envy.
Companies – such as Bear Head Energy in Point Tupper – along with Fortescue Future Industries, Northland Power Inc. and Everwin Fuels LLC are exploring hydrogen production opportunities in the Strait region.
Interest – already heightened – has mushroomed since Premier Tim Houston announced last September that the province had set a target to offer leases for five gigawatts of offshore wind energy by 2030 to support its budding green hydrogen industry.
“Setting this target sends a clear signal to the world that Nova Scotia is open for business and becoming an international leader in offshore wind and green hydrogen development,” he said at that time.
“We are taking every opportunity to develop our renewable energy market, not only to fight global climate change, but also to create green jobs here in Nova Scotia.”
The first call for bids – a process jointly managed by the provincial and federal governments – is scheduled for 2025.
