Ottawa, May 22, 2024—ICTC’s latest policy brief, Strengthening Nova Scotia’s Clean Energy Economy, presents recommendations for Nova Scotia’s transition to a net-zero emissions future.
The brief explores the labour market, technology, public policy, and socioeconomic mechanisms needed to advance Nova Scotia’s clean energy economy.
Drawing on key findings from a roundtable held in Halifax, Nova Scotia, in January 2024 with 14 industry leaders in the province’s clean energy sector, the brief presents several recommendations, including:
- Nova Scotia already possesses many of the skills needed for offshore wind and hydrogen production, both high-potential growth areas for the province. By leveraging the transferable skill sets of workers in the naval sector, offshore oil and gas, and tidal energy, Nova Scotia can accelerate offshore wind energy and other ocean-based clean energy developments—and work-integrated learning (WIL) programs could be the solution.
- Investments in clean energy training and workforce development initiatives are needed to address labour market challenges that currently constrain Nova Scotia’s ability to achieve a net-zero future. This should include continued investments from the province to ensure more training seats in high-demand trades programs.
- Scaling clean energy projects in Nova Scotia will require collective action and collaboration between all government, industry, and community-based stakeholders, particularly in coastal communities impacted by marine renewable energy developments.
- Nova Scotia must leverage new and emerging technologies and develop and strengthen key clean energy infrastructure to meet net-zero targets. Clean energy employers can ensure upfront costs do not prevent important technology adoption by reflecting on the return on investment of new and emerging technologies and the risks of not adopting such technologies.
- Supply chain resiliency related to wind energy should be prioritized, as onshore and offshore wind will be the predominant sources of clean energy for Nova Scotia over the next decade.
To achieve Nova Scotia’s ambitious targets to reach an 80% renewable energy mix by 2030 and a net-zero emissions economy by 2050, the province must leverage its existing expertise, scale skills development initiatives, and build collaborative relationships between government, industry, and the community.
While these net-zero targets are positive, the province still has a long way to go. Currently, about 62% of Nova Scotia’s electricity is powered by fossil fuels. The province also faces notable challenges related to the labour market, clean energy incentives and government programs, the province’s unique culture and smaller size compared to other provinces, and the lack of supporting infrastructure.
"Nova Scotia's bold targets for renewable energy and net-zero emissions demonstrate a strong commitment to a sustainable future. To achieve these goals, collaboration is key. By leveraging expertise, harnessing digital technologies, scaling skills development, and fostering partnerships, the province can drive meaningful change for generations to come.” — Namir Anani, President and CEO, ICTC
Read the Policy Brief
Strengthening Nova Scotia’s Clean Energy Economy
About ICTC
The Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC) is a neutral, not-for-profit national center of expertise with the mission of strengthening Canada's digital advantage in the global economy. For over 30 years, and with a team of 110 experts, we have delivered forward-looking research, practical policy advice, and capacity-building solutions for individuals and businesses. The organization’s goal is to ensure that technology is utilized to drive economic growth and innovation and that Canada's workforce remains competitive on a global scale.
To arrange an interview on this study or other media inquiries, please contact Paul Stastny at @email or 403.351.0138 Ext. 823.
This study was funded in part by the Government of Canada’s Student Work Placement Program (SWPP).
