Canada’s Atlantic provincial island of Nova Scotia will pursue a long-term goal of developing green hydrogen for decarbonized energy use.
Provincial leaders introduced their Green Hydrogen Action Plan, which includes seven goals and 23 actions, to support domestic use and export of green hydrogen. Hydrogen is an energy dense, light gas which does not contain carbon in its chain and thus does not emit carbon dioxide when combusted.
To be classified as truly green hydrogen, the H2 must be generated by electrolyzers powered by carbon-free energy resources such as wind, solar, hydropower and nuclear. Companies and governments all over the world are deploying or developing future hydrogen assets.
Nova Scotia’s location makes it ideal for export industry, and the province already employs a high level of clean energy resources in its generation mix. The province aims to offer seabed leases for 5 GW of offshore wind energy by 2030 to help develop onshore wind projects.
“Here in the Strait area, we have multiple hydrogen projects being proposed, so having a broad plan in place will help create certainty and confidence for our developers as they advance plans for commercial-scale green production facilities,” said Amanda Mombourquette, Warden, Richmond County; co-chair, Strait of Canso Offshore Wind Taskforce.
Proponents say the plan will help create a cleaner and more sustainable future for all Nova Scotians by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving energy efficiency and helping homes and buildings become more resilient to the impacts of climate change.
“Nova Scotia is poised to be a world leader in the production of green hydrogen, which will help us and our global partners develop our green economies and fight climate change,” said Premier Tim Houston.
“With this action plan, we’re continuing our work with businesses and communities to take advantage of this unique opportunity that will bring benefits to Nova Scotians for generations to come.”
