Renewable Electricity Projects Closer

Nova Scotians are closer to enjoying the benefits of more locally produced, clean, green electricity with the appointment of an independent renewable electricity administrator.

After an extensive process through the public tenders office, Power Advisory LLC has been chosen. The well-established firm has significant experience in this area, with offices in Massachusetts and Toronto.

It will oversee a call for bids from independent power producers to win the right to develop large, renewable-electricity projects to deliver 300 gigawatt hours per year between now and 2015. That equates to about 100 megawatts of wind power.

"The use of a third-party administrator ensures that the bids process is seen as equitable and transparent to all Nova Scotians," said Energy Minister Charlie Parker.

Nova Scotia's 2010 Renewable Electricity Plan set a target of 25 per cent of the province's electricity needs being met through renewable sources by 2015, and 40 per cent by 2020.

The plan calls for an equal amount of renewable electricity to be developed by independent power producers and directly by Nova Scotia Power, as well as about 100 megawatts for community organizations, municipalities and aboriginal groups.

Individual ratepayers can also take advantage of a program through Nova Scotia Power that pays them for extra electricity they generate.

Work on a power purchase agreement and call for bids will begin immediately. Consultations will be held in the fall and the call for bids will be made next year.