Wind Energy – Canada
Legislation to enable the development of offshore wind energy projects in Atlantic Canada has become law.
Bill C-49 received Royal Assent on October 3.
Bill C-49 expands offshore boards’ mandate in Nova Scotia, Newfoundland, and Labrador to include renewable energy projects, ensuring a consistent regulatory regime in federal-provincial jointly managed areas.
The new law will help achieve green energy self-sufficiency, benefit the economy, and improve the livelihoods of families and communities, said Senator Iris Petten, the Government Liaison from Newfoundland and Labrador who sponsored the legislation.
“Canada finds itself in a unique position. Around the world and in the context of the transition from fossil fuels that is occurring, major investment is flowing toward renewable energy projects. This is creating jobs and economic opportunity, and this is particularly true for the offshore wind industry,” Senator Petten said.
Senator Petten noted the legislation is the product of years of collaboration and negotiation between the governments of Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia and the federal government: “A true example of cooperative federalism at its best. Nova Scotia has already passed their mirror legislation, and Newfoundland and Labrador must pass their own to bring these joint management measures into effect.”
