Municipalities to participate in wind planning project

A unique pilot project involving wind energy development is set to begin for two municipalities in Nova Scotia.

The County of Cumberland and the Municipality of the District of Shelburne will receive funding to conduct a Wind Energy Development Plan.

The money will allow the municipalities to work with residents to identify locations in their communities where wind energy development is encouraged, discouraged or prohibited. The funding is also intended to increase public involvement around wind energy and educate Nova Scotians about the province's renewable energy and environmental goals.

The project, led by the Union of Nova Scotia Municipalities, will receive $80,000 from the province.

"Nova Scotia's goal of 40 per cent renewable electricity by 2020 will bring new opportunities for wind development around the province," said Energy Minister Bill Estabrooks. "It's great to see communities engaged in the process early on, allowing developers and residents to work towards achieving our renewable goals in partnership."

"The development of these two municipal wind siting plans is an important step in helping municipalities respond proactively to their potential for wind energy development," said Clarence Prince, president of the Union of Nova Scotia Municipalities. "Many of our municipalities have a great interest in, and the potential to develop wind energy as an important renewable energy source to make their communities more sustainable."

Municipalities are expected to complete their wind siting plans by December. If the pilot project is successful, the province may consider expanding the initiative to other municipalities.