Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston has proposed a major offshore wind initiative, dubbed Wind West, aimed at scaling up Canada’s clean energy capacity. The plan outlines construction of enough offshore wind turbines to generate 40GW of electricity over the next decade—an output equivalent to around 27% of Canada's current electricity demand.
The proposal was presented ahead of a meeting in Saskatoon where provincial and territorial leaders shared infrastructure priorities with Prime Minister Mark Carney. The federal government has indicated it is willing to support nationally significant projects and expedite their approval.
Nova Scotia currently has no operational offshore wind projects, though it is in the process of licensing developments totalling up to 5GW by 2030. Wind West would increase that figure eightfold, representing a substantial expansion in scope.
According to the provincial government, the realisation of this project will depend on federal backing, private sector investment, and a coordinated national approach to industry development. A statement from the province noted that turbines could be installed within the next ten years. However, no details have yet been released regarding project costs or financing structures.
The plan also includes the construction of a cross-country transmission system to distribute electricity generated offshore to other provinces. In addition to grid supply, the energy could power green hydrogen production, battery manufacturing and data centres.
Five zones off the coast of Nova Scotia have been identified as suitable for offshore wind development. Four are located south of the eastern shore—French Bank, Middle Bank, Sable Island Bank and Emerald Bank—while the fifth, Sydney Bight, lies northeast of Cape Breton. Together, these areas cover more than 19,500 square kilometres. A 25-kilometre buffer zone from the coast and around protected areas such as Sable Island has also been recommended.
The Canada-Nova Scotia Offshore Energy Regulator will oversee the competitive licensing process for development in these zones.
