Canada’s Port of Argentia (pictured) has signed an option to lease agreement with Pattern Energy Group to advance the development of a substantial multi-phase renewable energy project at the Newfoundland harbour.
The development will include a wind energy project and green hydrogen and derivative renewable fuels production and export facility.
Pattern Energy is one of the largest producers of wind energy in Canada and operates a project fleet of over 6GW of renewable energy globally.
Through the agreement, Pattern Energy will determine the commercial feasibility of wind energy and green hydrogen production at the Port.
It will also undertake development activities for the construction of wind turbines, a hydrogen electrolysis plant and storage facility, and related green fuels infrastructure on Port lands.
Working with strategic supply chain partners, the project aims to export green fuels, including carbon-free green ammonia, to global markets.
Port chief executive Scott Penney said: “The Port stands on the cutting edge of the transition to renewable energy and this project will lay the foundation for future development of Argentia as a green port.
“From a business development standpoint, this work will generate significant capital investment on site and the creation of dozens of new jobs in servicing production infrastructure and plant operations.
“This development at Argentia aligns with both provincial and federal initiatives in reaching zero emissions by 2050.”
Pattern Energy Canada country head Frank Davis said: “We are excited to work with Port of Argentia to help unlock the enormous potential for renewable energy exports in Newfoundland and Labrador.
“In the coming years, global demand for low-carbon green fuels will be significant, as countries seek ways to lower carbon emissions and transition national energy systems away from fossil fuels.
“The province of Newfoundland and Labrador has the potential to emerge as a major competitive supplier of green fuels produced from low-cost wind energy, particularly to European markets.”
Port chairperson Wayne Power added: “Argentia has been on the global map as a key strategic location between European and North American markets for many years.
“This development reinforces the claim that our Port can successfully support major projects for export globally, and in doing so enhance the economic growth of the Placentia region and the entire Province.”