Nova Scotia's Progress on Renewable Energy and Local Infrastructure Projects

In episode 23 of The Record, Nova Scotia’s Minister of Natural Resources and Renewables, Tory Rushton, spoke with Civic Journalist Jake Boudrot about the long-delayed Bill C-49 and its current progress.

Rushton discussed a recent press release from the Department of Natural Resources and Renewables (DNRR), highlighting amendments to provincial legislation introduced on September 10. These amendments aim to advance Nova Scotia’s renewable energy industry and improve public safety.

“We’re making changes that help improve public safety and strengthen industries in rural Nova Scotia,” Rushton explained.

According to the DNRR, the Advancing Nova Scotia Opportunities Act is an omnibus bill that addresses seven pieces of legislation. These include the Canada-Nova Scotia Offshore Petroleum Resources Accord Implementation Act, which expands the mandate of the Canada-Nova Scotia Offshore Petroleum Board to regulate offshore renewable energy projects and power lines, and the Marine Renewable-energy Act, which aims to streamline offshore wind development. Other legislative updates involve supporting low-carbon fuel investments under the Gas Distribution Act, as well as improvements to the licensing process for sustainable aquaculture under the Fisheries and Coastal Resources Act.

The department noted that amendments related to offshore wind energy will help position Nova Scotia for its first call for bids in 2025, aiding both provincial and national efforts to meet climate change goals.

Federal Investment in Atlantic Canada’s Offshore Wind Energy

Rushton also shared his thoughts on a significant announcement made by Sean Fraser, the federal Minister of Housing, Infrastructure, and Communities, on September 15. Fraser revealed a $9.25 million investment through the Energy Innovation Program for two projects led by Net Zero Atlantic, designed to develop offshore wind energy and further clean technology efforts in the Atlantic region.

Of this funding, $6 million will go toward the Atlantic Canada Offshore Wind Integration and Transmission Study. In partnership with the Atlantic provinces, this study will explore how electricity produced from offshore wind resources can clean up the regional grid. It will also identify opportunities for exporting renewable electricity and clean hydrogen.

An additional $3.25 million will support the Net Zero Emerging Concepts and Technologies Research Program, focusing on research and development for clean technologies and measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across Atlantic Canada.

Port Hawkesbury's Infrastructure Projects Update

Following a regular meeting of the Port Hawkesbury Town Council on October 1, Mayor Brenda Chisholm-Beaton addressed questions about the town’s ongoing infrastructure projects.

Port Hawkesbury Public Works Director Jason MacMillan provided updates on the new steel public works building in the business park, which remains on track for its January 2025 completion. He also detailed the progress on the Pitts Street water tower, where foundation work and valve chamber upgrades are halfway complete.

“The tower had degraded significantly, with visible ice damage. Without repairs, it could last another five years, but this work will ensure its longevity and improve the overall water system,” MacMillan said. He also explained that while the water tower is being fixed, the town is using water from the main tower without any disruptions to service.

In addition to the water tower, MacMillan noted several other infrastructure issues, including rusted valves, inadequate heating and lighting in various buildings, and safety concerns in areas prone to flooding. Plans to modernize equipment and upgrade the water system are underway, with goals to improve water quality, safety, and maintenance efficiency.

MacMillan also provided updates on the town’s paving projects, noting that 6,500 square meters have been completed at an estimated cost of $460,000. Crews are now working on additional asphalt upgrades, with priority given to the worst roads, as identified by town staff.

Sidewalk improvements, at a cost of $714,000 for 2.5 km, are expected to be finished by mid-November, and the Active Transportation (AT) trail between Queen Street and Cardeil Estates is now complete. MacMillan shared that an extension from MacQuarrie Drive to Crandall Road should be finished by next month.

Public Meetings and Future Programs in Port Hawkesbury

On October 1, the town hosted public meetings to guide residents through the new electronic voting process. Additionally, Port Hawkesbury Town Council approved a motion to remove discussions about the alignment of Reeves Street from the agenda, as it was part of a public consultation with Nova Scotia Public Works scheduled for October 3.

In other community news, Michele MacPhee, Administration and Project Coordinator with the Centre of Rural Aging and Health (CORAH), discussed recent events and upcoming programs offered by the organization. CORAH had a successful season kick-off with many new and returning participants at their offices on the Nova Scotia Community College Strait Area Campus.

CORAH was invited to take part in a movie screening on September 26, organized by NSCC faculty. The event featured mental health speakers and discussion circles with social services faculty and students. After watching Inside Out, a guest speaker shared their experiences living with schizophrenia, followed by a Q&A session.

Looking ahead, CORAH has an event scheduled for Monday, November 4, from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. NSCC Health Services faculty and students will present on protecting skin integrity and wound prevention/healing, led by RN Sheri McPhee.

MacPhee also outlined other upcoming programs and services CORAH plans to offer, which aim to support the health and well-being of rural residents.