Nova East Wind has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs regarding the development, installation, and operation of an offshore wind project off the eastern shore of Nova Scotia, Canada.
The DP Energy and SBM Offshore JV aims to develop a floating offshore wind project that could generate up to 400MW.
The project will consist of 20 to 25 floating wind turbines, each designed to generate an anticipated 15MW of energy.
The floating wind farm is targeted to be operational by the early 2030s with a view of supporting Nova Scotia and Canada’s decarbonization goals.
Culminating from extensive dialogue between the parties, the MoU reflects a desire to build a relationship to be sustained for the life of the project.
Nova East Wind and the Assembly are committed to cooperating in a mutually beneficial manner, ensuring the projects progress while seeking to mitigate any potential impacts on the rights of the Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq, the developer said.
During the term of the MoU, the parties will seek to develop a Mutual Benefits Agreement, building on existing Mi’kmaw renewable energy capacities, to create meaningful and direct participation in the project.
Nova East Wind is committing to develop a Two-Eyed Seeing (Etuaptmumk) programme to support a greater understanding of the project respecting the traditional knowledge of First Nations.
Chief Sidney Peters, Assembly of First Nations Nova Scotia said “Any time work is being considered on the lands and waters of Mi’kma’ki, it is important that Mi’kmaw voices are part of those conversations to ensure any developments are carried out in a responsible and sustainable manner.
“The MoU with Nova East Wind will help to open the doors for a dialogue on how we can create a stronger, brighter, and greener future for the Mi’kmaw Nation.”
Simon De Pietro, chief executive of DP Energy, said: “This is an important first step for Nova East Wind as it seeks to establish meaningful Indigenous participation in the project, a key component of this MoU.
“We remain committed to developing this project in a sustainable and environmentally responsible manner, respecting the views and rights of the Mi’kmaq.
“The primary goal of the MoU is to embody the practices and values of the First Nations of Atlantic Canada and align with the need to protect onshore and offshore environments in Nova Scotia.”