The Canadian province of Nova Scotia and the US state of Massachusetts have signed a memorandum of understanding that could see offshore wind power generated off Nova Scotia supplied to Massachusetts in the coming years.
The agreement comes as Nova Scotia prepares to launch its first seabed lease auction later this year, marking the start of Canada’s offshore wind sector.
Nova Scotia premier Tim Houston said during a visit to Boston: “We’re on the verge of our first call for bids to license the first offshore wind projects in Canada, and we’re advancing Wind West to build the transmission infrastructure to send that clean energy to markets.
“Our agreement with Massachusetts signals to developers that markets for their clean energy are solidifying, giving them even more confidence to invest in our new offshore wind industry.”
Nova Scotia is aiming to offer seabed leases for up to 5GW of offshore wind capacity. However, exporting that power will depend on new transmission infrastructure, either through the proposed Wind West project to other parts of Canada, via an undersea cable to New England, or a combination of both.
Massachusetts governor Maura Healey highlighted the long-standing relationship between the two regions, saying: “Our relationship with Nova Scotia is special. More than a century ago, when the Halifax Explosion devastated the city and its port, Massachusetts was there to provide immediate aid and support.
“That spirit of collaboration continues today as we work together to build a strong, resilient offshore wind sector that lowers energy costs and creates good-paying jobs along the Atlantic coast.”
