Nova Scotia — Nova Scotia announced the launch of a new Green Choice Program that is set to enable numerous large-scale electricity consumers to achieve both cost savings and their climate change objectives by utilizing clean energy sources.
Under this initiative, participants will have the opportunity to source up to 100 percent of their electricity from renewable sources.
Tory Rushton, the Minister of Natural Resources and Renewables, emphasized the uniqueness of the Green Choice Program, stating, “Green Choice is the first program of its kind in Canada. It will help public institutions and other large customers become cleaner and greener.”
He further explained that the program, once fully operational, will contribute an additional 10 percent of renewable electricity to the grid, thereby advancing the goal of achieving 80 percent renewables by 2030.
To support the program’s renewable electricity requirements, the Province has initiated a procurement process commencing on December 1, aiming to secure new projects capable of generating 350 megawatts of renewable electricity starting in 2027-28.
This procurement is open to wind and solar energy projects.
The Green Choice Program is open to various eligible participants, encompassing government entities, Mi’kmaw band councils, public educational institutions, universities, Nova Scotia Community College, healthcare facilities, non-profit organizations, and potentially some large commercial or industrial consumers. Applications for participation will open on December 15.
The launch of the Green Choice Program this year aligns with the objectives outlined in “Our Climate, Our Future: Nova Scotia’s Climate Change Plan for Clean Growth,” which aims to forge a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future for the residents of Nova Scotia.
This comprehensive plan encompasses initiatives focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, transitioning to clean energy sources, fostering a clean economy, enhancing energy efficiency in homes and buildings to withstand climate change impacts, and facilitating adaptation to a changing climate.
Jean-Yves Duclos, the Minister of Public Services and Procurement Canada, expressed the Government of Canada’s support for Nova Scotia’s Green Choice Program, highlighting its potential to power federal buildings with clean electricity.
He emphasized the positive impact of this endeavor on the local green economy, the fight against climate change, and the creation of a healthier future for all Canadians.
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