Glooscap First Nation and SWEB Development Awarded Three Wind Energy Projects to be Built in Nova Scotia

Glooscap First Nation and Halifax-based SWEB Development are pleased to announce three of their proposed wind energy projects have been chosen to deliver green electricity to Nova Scotia ratepayers through the province’s Green Choice Program. The projects are expected to have a generation capacity of 315 MW, which will contribute to phasing out Nova Scotia’s reliance on coal power plants and meeting local electricity demand.

“As a Nation, we are committed to meaningful action that balances economic reconciliation with environmental stewardship," says Glooscap First Nation Chief Sidney Peters. "We aim to build meaningful partnerships that protect the well-being of our community while addressing the need for cleaner, more sustainable energy sources. By advancing clean energy in Nova Scotia, we are protecting the land, water, and ecosystems that sustain us and ensuring a healthier, more sustainable future for generations to come.”

Two of the wind energy projects, Yellow Birch and Sugar Maple, will be located in Pictou County. The third, Blueberry Acres, is planned in Cumberland County. The total of all awarded wind projects is anticipated to produce energy at an average cost of $63.62 per megawatt hour, which is below the average electricity cost in Nova Scotia.

"We are honoured to be awarded these projects, which represent a critical milestone in Nova Scotia's transition to clean energy," said Rory Cantwell, CEO of SWEB Development. "We are proud to be co-owners with Glooscap First Nation on these projects, ensuring that the benefits of renewable energy stay in local communities. Together, these wind projects will provide affordable, sustainable energy while helping Nova Scotia ratepayers save money on electricity costs.”

Glooscap First Nation and SWEB Development are deeply committed to supporting the communities they serve by building strong local partnerships and fostering strong community connections. The three projects have committed approximately eight million dollars over their lifespans, which will be allocated to host communities, members of Glooscap and Pictou Landing First Nations, and local not-for-profit organizations. This is in addition to more than 80 million dollars in taxes paid to the host municipalities over 25 years.

“We work with not-for-profit organizations such as Women in Renewable Energy and Winds of Change, supporting their initiatives for marginalized communities through financial contributions, volunteer efforts, and other resources tailored to their specific needs,” remarks Cantwell.

"These projects represent a significant step forward, not only in advancing environmental sustainability but also in addressing gender disparity within the renewable energy sector," said Joanna Osawe, President of Women in Renewable Energy (WiRE). "Renewable energy offers a tremendous opportunity for innovation and growth, yet women remain underrepresented in this field. By incorporating initiatives that actively support and elevate women, these projects demonstrate a commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion within an industry that is shaping the future.”

Since 2014, SWEB has established a proven track record of sharing the benefits of its wind energy projects with communities across Atlantic Canada. In Nova Scotia, SWEB and its partners' existing wind energy projects have contributed hundreds of thousands of dollars to support a range of initiatives, including a Museum on the South Shore, a Lions Club in Cape Breton, a Community Society on the Bay of Fundy and a Community Hall near Nine Mile River. These contributions reflect SWEB’s commitment to fostering sustained local growth and strong community connections.

The Green Choice Program, a key component of Nova Scotia’s Clean Power Plan, advances the objectives of the Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act. The program was designed to provide large Nova Scotia Power customers—including hospitals, schools, universities, municipalities, and businesses—with affordable, clean electricity.