The governments of Canada and Nova Scotia have instructed the Canada–Nova Scotia Offshore Energy Regulator to begin a prequalification process for offshore wind leasing.
The move follows the designation of wind energy areas earlier this year and represents the next step toward delivering the country’s first offshore wind projects.
The regulator will now implement a prequalification process and a call for information to attract qualified investors and allow the public, Indigenous groups and stakeholders to inform the design of an upcoming call for bids.
Federal energy minister Tim Hodgson said: “Today’s announcement is another leap toward Canada becoming the global supplier of choice for energy and supporting our long-term energy security.”
Justice minister Sean Fraser added: “In Atlantic Canada, we have the wind, the people and the ambition to lead the clean energy future. Now we’re acting on that potential – turning some of the world’s strongest winds into good jobs, new investment and clean, reliable energy.”
The announcement builds on last week’s creation of the Major Projects Office to accelerate transformative projects such as Wind West Atlantic Energy, which aims to harness Nova Scotia’s offshore wind resources and deliver clean power across the region.
Nova Scotia energy minister Trevor Boudreau said: “Offshore wind is a game changer for Nova Scotia. We’re pleased to get the process underway for the first call for bids so we can harness this tremendous natural resource for the benefit of all Nova Scotians.”
Canada–Nova Scotia Offshore Energy Regulator chief executive Christine Bonnell-Eisnor said the regulator is finalising details of the prequalification and call for information processes.
Marine Renewables Canada executive director Elisa Obermann said: “This fall marks a pivotal time for Canada’s offshore wind future. Industry is ready to roll up its sleeves and collaborate with governments, regulators, Indigenous partners and stakeholders to ensure a process that is transparent, fair and efficient.”