QUEENS COUNTY, N.S. — The Province of Nova Scotia is moving forward with the Mersey River Wind Project, a 33-turbine wind farm planned for Queens County that will generate 148.5 megawatts (MW) of electricity.

Premier Tim Houston announced provincial support for the project, stating it is expected to create more than 200 construction jobs and produce enough electricity to power more than 50,000 homes annually.

Project Details

The Mersey River Wind Farm is being developed by Mersey River Wind Inc. and is located approximately 4.4 kilometres east of Milton, Queens County.

The project consists of 33 wind turbines, each capable of producing up to 4.5 MW of electricity. Turbines will reach heights of up to 180 metres to the tip of the blade. The total planned capacity of the facility is 148.5 MW.

The wind farm is expected to operate for approximately 20 years, with operations anticipated to have commenced in 2024 following construction that began in summer or fall 2023.

Environmental Assessment and Ministerial Approval

On February 3, 2023, Mersey River Wind Inc. formally registered the project for environmental assessment under Part IV of Nova Scotia’s Environment Act.

On March 27, 2023, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change approved the undertaking pursuant to Section 13(1)(b) of the Environmental Assessment Regulations. The approval was granted subject to a number of conditions.

A Minister’s Amendment to the conditions of approval came into effect on November 29, 2023.

Part of Nova Scotia’s Renewable-to-Retail Program

The Mersey River Wind Project forms part of Nova Scotia’s first Renewable-to-Retail Program. The program allows private entities to register as Licensed Retail Suppliers and sell electricity directly to consumers, rather than exclusively through the traditional utility model.

The initiative is intended to expand renewable energy development while providing eligible customers with greater choice in electricity sourcing.

Role in Provincial Energy Strategy

The project aligns with the province’s broader Wind West plan and long-term renewable energy expansion strategy. Nova Scotia has committed to significantly increasing renewable electricity generation by 2030 as it transitions toward a cleaner and more interconnected power system.

Officials say developments like the Mersey River Wind Project position Nova Scotia as a growing leader in renewable energy infrastructure while supporting economic activity in rural communities.