The Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) announced it is investing $224.2 million to support the development of a wind farm. The money, provided in the form of loans, will be directed towards the Goose Harbour Lake Wind Farm.
The project will feature feature 24 Nordex N163-7.0MW cold climate turbines, each standing 118 meters tall. They will use anti-icing to ensure efficient energy production in extremely cold climates. The total output of the entire wind farm would be 168 megawatts, which translates to zero-emission, low-carbon renewable electricity. Res Canada Construction LP is responsible for the project’s construction.
Additionally, CIB’s investment will help 13 Mi’kmaw First Nations purchase a 10% equity stake in the wind farm through Wskijinu’k Mtmo’taqnuow Agency Ltd. (WMA).
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Indigenous Equity in Clean Energy
The loan to WMA marks the second investment by the CIB in Indigenous equity, following a similar agreement last year related to an energy storage project in Nova Scotia. This initiative helps ensure that all Mi’kmaw First Nations have a voice in the project and an opportunity for meaningful participation in the renewable energy sector.
Supporting the Provincial Energy Grid and Economy
The wind farm will support the provincial energy grid and Port Hawkesbury Paper. Port Hawkesbury Paper is Nova Scotia’s largest industrial electricity user. The paper mill has been a part of the regional economy since it began operating and is the major source of jobs for about 325 people. It also contracts with around 900 more jobs. More than that, the mill generates hundreds of forestry-related jobs.
Environmental Benefits and Emission Reduction
The wind farm is expected to reduce Nova Scotia’s energy production emissions. The project will cut more than 350,000 tonnes annually. This reduction represents 2.4% of the province’s emissions in 2021. The wind farm will help Nova Scotia’s transition from coal to renewable energy.
Shifting to Clean Energy
The wind farm falls in CIB’s $10 billion Clean Power priority sector, wherein the focus will be on addressing financing gaps in new renewable energy projects. The strategic partnership and support from CIB with Port Hawkesbury Paper Wind Ltd. will together lead to sustainable economic development for Nova Scotia. The project is expected to come commence commercial operations in 2026.
The Goose Harbour Lake Wind Farm is an important step in Nova Scotia’s transition to clean energy. CIB’s investment will not only help reduce emissions but also generate jobs and economic opportunities for the region. With active participation from Mi’kmaw First Nations, the project exemplifies a successful model for clean energy and community involvement in Canada.