Assessment of green methanol as a long-term energy storage solution in Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia (NS) aims to advance renewables and green hydrogen. However, large-scale hydrogen storage and transportation are still technically and economically challenging, requiring extreme-cooling and high-pressure systems, which call for solutions that convert it to other forms of fuels that are easier to handle. We will investigate the technical and economic feasibility of producing green methanol (GM) in NS, the optimal configuration of its supply chain, and its potential applications. The aim is to convert surplus wind and solar energy into a fuel that is easy to store and transport, utilizing the province's existing distribution networks. GM can fuel ferries and vessels, provide heat and power for industry, and support backup power at ports. Working with AKA Energy, whose modular "solar-to-methanol" concept targets remote and coastal regions, we will design and evaluate an optimized GM supply chain for NS and the wider Atlantic region. In plain terms, we will determine where to place renewable generators, electrolyzes, CO₂ capture units, methanol plants, storage tanks, and fueling terminals, their capacities, how to transport hydrogen, CO₂, and methanol between them, and where to use GM.

This study aims to fill this knowledge gap by: 

1. Identifying the least-cost, low-carbon buildouts for GM production, storage,
2. and logistics that complement battery and grid upgrades; 
3. Quantify economics (delivered $/ton and $/GJ), seasonal reliability benefits, and GHG reductions under realistic Atlantic Canada scenarios; Compare GM with direct hydrogen storage to illustrate when each option is more practical; 
4. Provide guidance on siting that reflects community, environmental, and safety considerations. 

This research will inform strategies, including a decision-ready siting map and a build plan for GM in Atlantic Canada, a transparent assessment of costs, emissions, and seasonal reliability, and a validated planning tool that agencies and partners (including AKA Energy) can reuse to advance real projects.