Province to Study New Job Opportunities in Green Economy

Nova Scotia's aggressive renewable energy goals will create new opportunities for jobs and economic growth, and the province wants local contractors and suppliers to take full advantage.

Energy Minister Bill Estabrooks announced today, May 6, a new study to assess the business and research opportunities in the renewable energy sector, including wind, tidal and bio energy.

"Our goal of 40 per cent renewable electricity by 2020 will put Nova Scotia in a position of global leadership," said Mr. Estabrooks. "This initiative will make Nova Scotia companies more aware of the opportunities for them as we strive to meet our goal."

Nova Scotia's interim target of 25 per cent renewable electricity by 2015 is expected to generate 5,000 to 7,500 person years of employment in construction, supply, manufacturing and maintenance.

The $87,700 study, will help government and industry understand the capabilities, capacity and competitiveness of local companies working in the renewable energy sector. The study will evaluate Nova Scotia companies against regional, national and international standards and help identify any knowledge and capability gaps.

Halifax-based SLR Consulting (Canada) Ltd. will conduct the study, one of 14 bidders for the project tendered Jan. 19. The company has worked in the renewable energy and supplier development fields, locally and internationally.

The study is expected to be completed late this year.

BROADCAST COPY:

Nova Scotia's aggressive renewable energy goals will create new

opportunities for jobs and economic growth, and the province

wants local contractors and suppliers to take full advantage.

Energy Minister Bill Estabrooks announced a new study today

(May 6th) to assess business and research opportunities in the

renewable energy sector, including wind, tidal and bio energy.

Mr. Estabrooks says the study will make Nova Scotia

companies more aware of the opportunities for them.