Rules for Community Renewable Projects Finalized

Nova Scotia communities can begin preparing applications to take advantage of the province's plan to encourage locally produced, renewable electricity projects.

The project standards were released today, July 26, after a five-week public consultation.

"Community groups from across the province are eager to get going with this opportunity," said Energy Minister Charlie Parker. "With these directives in hand, they can start preparing their applications."

The standards detail small-wind project specifications and ensure the opportunities are fairly distributed around the province. They also define eligible biomass sources.

Nova Scotia's 2010 Renewable Electricity Plan calls for 40 per cent of the province's electricity to be generated from renewable sources such as wind, biomass and tidal energy by 2020.

A portion of that target has been set aside for small projects, to be developed by municipalities, Mi'kmaq bands and other community groups through the world's first Community Feed-In Tariff program.

Last month, the Utility and Review Board set fixed rates for electricity generated by such projects. The rates will be finalized this summer.

"The plan is to start accepting applications Sept. 19," Mr. Parker. "Groups interested in pursuing this should register at nsrenewables.ca so that department staff can help them start preparing their applications over the summer."

The feed-in tariff program will be reviewed in 18 months.