Q ENERGY France has signed two memoranda of understanding with Nova Scotia Community College and innovation agency The PIER as it progresses through Nova Scotia’s pre-qualification process for offshore wind seabed licences.
The partnerships will focus on workforce development, applied research and sector-wide collaboration, said the company.
The initiatives aim to support Nova Scotia’s offshore wind ambitions and ensure the industry delivers growth, local benefits and global best practices, added Q ENERGY.
Junu Lee, chief executive of Q ENERGY France, said: “To deliver on offshore wind’s promise, it’s essential to work hand in hand with educational, research, and industry partners right here in Nova Scotia.”
Q ENERGY and NSCC will collaborate on workforce training for marine operations and offshore wind maintenance alongside applied research through SEATAC and sector convening with Marine Renewables Canada.
“NSCC is proud to collaborate with Q ENERGY as Nova Scotia advances its emerging offshore wind sector,” said Don Bureaux, president of NSCC.
“By bringing together Q ENERGY’s global expertise and NSCC’s strengths in applied research, training and sector collaboration, we are helping to build the foundation for a clean-energy future that benefits communities across Nova Scotia,” added Bureaux.
Q ENERGY and The PIER will also work together on innovation initiatives, supply chain readiness and digital solutions for transparency and collaboration.
“Supply chain innovation is critical for success,” said Mike Davie, vice president of operations, sustainability, and technology at the Halifax Port Authority.
“We look forward to working with our innovators and partners as we tap our experienced and globally-connected network to support this exciting step in Nova Scotia’s offshore wind energy development,” added Davie.
The agreements follow Q ENERGY France’s decision to participate in Nova Scotia’s pre-qualification phase with sister company Hanwha Ocean and form part of Hanwha Group’s wider engagement in Canada.
Q ENERGY said its 25 years of renewable energy experience and access to Hanwha’s industrial and technological capabilities position the business to support Canada’s clean energy transition.