Agreement Helps Trenton Plant to Build Nova Scotia Wind Towers

NOTE: A social media version of this release, with high-res, downloadable photos is available at http://gov.ns.ca/news/smr/2010-10-19-Letter_of_Intent/

Nova Scotia Power and Daewoo Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering (DSME) have agreed to work together to build and deploy made-in Nova Scotia wind towers and blades across the province.

During a tour of the DSME operation in Busan, Korea, Premier Darrell Dexter announced today, Oct. 19, a letter of intent has been signed between DSME Trenton and Nova Scotia Power that provides the opportunity for DSME to supply wind turbine components for up to 100 MW of capacity expected over the next four years. The Nova Scotia government is a partner with DSME in the Trenton operation under the terms of a deal announced in March.

"This is a win-win situation towards creating a better future for all Nova Scotians," said Premier Dexter. "Securing work to build towers and blades needed here in the province will mean hundreds of high quality jobs, while showcasing the plant's manufacturing capabilities throughout North America."

The province has set a target of producing 25 per cent of its electricity from renewable resources by 2015, and a goal of 40 per cent by 2020. These are some of the most aggressive targets of their kind in the world.

Nova Scotia Power will work with DSME on having the Trenton plant supply the towers and blades required by the utility during the next several years. In addition, they will encourage the use of those components by independent power producers working on their own or in partnership with communities to develop wind power.

"We are very pleased about this agreement, and how it strengthens our partnerships with Nova Scotia and NSPI," said Mr. Nam Ki Lee, CEO of DSME Trenton. "We continue to expect that our arrival in the province will support our plans to enter and succeed in the North American wind market."

"We look forward to furthering our relationship with Daewoo," said Robin McAdam, executive vice-president, sustainability with Nova Scotia Power. "We are interested in exploring opportunities to help create success for a local manufacturer as Nova Scotia Power expands its renewable generation."

Under the letter of intent, DSME would supply Nova Scotia Power with the wind turbine components, subject to competitive pricing and quality, and the ability to meet requirements of the utility's turbine suppliers.