On February 26, the Honourable Tim Hodgson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, announced that Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) will provide nearly $5 million to Net Zero Atlantic (NZA) for the Data Analysis and Modelling for Atlantic Offshore Wind and Transmission project. The funding supports the next phase of offshore wind and electricity system planning, helping strengthen the analytical foundation for future development in the region.
Offshore wind buildout in Atlantic Canada is not constrained by resource availability, but by access to electricity markets and the associated grid development. This project will further our understanding of interconnection and transmission corridors, and will identify where such corridors may be, what cable technology options may exist, and what considerations in terms of regulatory, environmental, supply chain, etc. should be taken into consideration.
Outputs are expected to reduce early-stage uncertainty and inform transmission planning and future investment decisions across Eastern Canada and the northeastern United States.
“Wind West requires a clear understanding not only of offshore wind potential, but also how the electricity can get to markets. The project delivers the data, modelling, and transmission corridor analysis that is needed to plan a reliable and competitive path forward. Net Zero Atlantic remains committed to delivering the independent research and coordination required to advance the sustainable development of offshore wind in our region.”
— Sven Scholtysik, Director, Research, Net Zero Atlantic
Related federal investment
During the announcement, Minister Hodgson also confirmed $25 million in federal support for the Mersey River Wind Project, a 148.5-megawatt wind facility expected to generate enough electricity to power nearly 150,000 homes. The project is designed to sell electricity directly to consumers through Nova Scotia’s Renewable to Retail Program.
Program support
This project is supported by funding from the Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways Program (SREPs), Office of Energy Research and Development, Natural Resources Canada.