HALIFAX – The province’s new independent energy system operator is exploring how to add new, foundational electricity generation in Pictou County to work alongside wind in replacing coal-fired generation.
IESO Nova Scotia issued a request for expressions of interest (REOI) for organizations to build, own and operate at least 300 megawatts of fast acting gas fired electricity generation. Two possible locations in Pictou County have been identified, with work now underway to engage with the broader local community. The locations are being proposed in part because of their proximity to the natural gas pipeline that has operated safely in Pictou County for more than 25 years. IESO Nova Scotia will be looking for hydrogen readiness to future proof such facilities should this become a feasible option in the future.
“Under Nova Scotia’s Clean Power Plan, coal plants are soon closing and renewable energy is significantly increasing. To ensure the province’s ambitious clean energy goals for 2030 and beyond are met, Nova Scotia needs fast acting generation that acts as a counterbalance to changing winds and is ultimately there to provide stable, reliable and a ordable electricity at those rare times when the wind isn’t blowing and the sun isn’t shining,” said Johnny Johnston, President and Chief Executive Officer of IESO Nova Scotia.
The REOI is asking proponents to provide by November 21 responses that demonstrate their technical and financial ability to cost-e ectively deliver new electricity generation by 2030. The detailed request for proposals procurement phase will open in January 2026. The successful proponent to build, own and operate the facility will be announced by IESO Nova Scotia by the summer of 2026.
“At the same time as we gauge market interest in this new project, we will be listening to the community, answering questions and engaging respectfully about the project, the environmental safeguards we will mandate, and the ecological and economic benefits from a project like this,” added Johnston. “We recognize that change will always prompt questions and concerns and we are committed to providing as much information as we can in an open, transparent and professional way.”
More information about the proposed project is available at www.ieso-ns.ca.
About IESO Nova Scotia
Created in 2024 under Nova Scotia law as a new, independent, not-for-profit organization, IESO Nova Scotia began operations this year. IESO Nova Scotia will be responsible for the planning and reliable operation of Nova Scotia’s bulk electricity system, assuming duties from Nova Scotia Power and the Nova Scotia Department of Energy. Over the next 18 months, IESO is taking on the responsibilities of planning and managing the electricity grid in a phased approach. This includes running the integrated resource planning processes, overseeing procurement of energy resources and services, system operations, and the transition to clean energy in a fair and transparent way.
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Media contact:
Cathy MacIsaac
IESO Nova Scotia Communications
902-240-0372
communications@ieso-ns.ca