Shag Harbour Renewable Energy Project Moves Forward

Shag Harbour is closer to enjoying the benefits of clean, green renewable electricity generated in its own backyard.

A wind energy project in Shag Harbour received approval today, Sept. 21, under the Community Feed-in Tariff (COMFIT) Program.
"The approval of this project demonstrates how Nova Scotians are committed to improving their energy future, reducing their environmental footprint, and creating economic opportunities," said Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Sterling Belliveau, on behalf of Energy Minister Charlie Parker. "Shag Harbour will soon be able to produce clean, green electricity to power its homes and businesses."

Watts Wind Energy will develop the 3.2 MW project as a Community Economic Development Investment Fund (CEDIF), which will sell shares across the province, with a focus on the community.

"The Shag Harbour/Barrington area is very windy; we look forward to developing this world-class resource with the community," said Paul Pynn, director and vice-president, Watts Wind. "We are encouraged by the level of interest community members have shown in sharing the ownership of the project and contributing to greener electricity production in the province, while creating local economic development."

The 2010 Renewable Electricity Plan introduced the COMFIT concept to help provide a secure supply of clean energy at stable prices, build community support for renewable energy projects and create jobs.

"COMFIT offers Nova Scotia the opportunity to become a leader in renewable energy," said Mr. Belliveau. "In addition, renewable energy projects such as this will help the province to move away from dirty fossil fuels and towards our legislated goal of 40 per cent renewable energy by 2020."

Eligible groups receive an established price per kilowatt hour for projects producing electricity from certain renewable resources. Projects can include wind, biomass, in-stream tidal and river hydroelectric developments. Eligible groups include municipalities, First Nations, co-operatives, universities and not-for-profit groups.

More than 25 community-based groups have submitted over 100 locally based renewable energy development proposals for this unique, made-in-Nova Scotia initiative. The province expects 100 megawatts to be produced through COMFIT.

For more information on the program visit www.nsrenewables.ca .