Shear Wind Inc. (Shear Wind) has received environmental assessment approval (EAA) from Nova Scotia Department of Environment (NSDE) for the Nova Scotia 60 megawatt (MW) wind project. The approval is based upon the review of the conceptual design, environmental baseline information, impact predictions and mitigation submitted to the NSDE by the company. The EAA is pursuant to Section 40 of the Environment Act and Section 13 (1)(b) of the Environmental Assessment Regulations.
The project is located in the Pictou and Antigonish counties.
The EAA is subject to getting all other necessary approvals, permits or authorizations needed by municipal, provincial and federal acts, before beginning work on the project.
Community support has been very instrumental in the development of this wind farm. They have indicated great pride in their ability to contribute to responsible and long-term sustainability. Our many meetings with community members has given us the sense that building renewable energy projects is of importance and concern to everyone, states Ian Tillard, chief operating officer of Shear Wind, and the economic benefits are a bonus.
Tillard added, This is a major milestone for us. Receiving the provincial permit is a significant advancement for Shear Wind’s Glen Dhu development schedule. Our next step is to enter the construction phase, include finalizing turbine purchase arrangements, await environmental approval from the Federal Government of Canada and any municipal permits which may be required.