Nova Scotia's Energy System Operator Faces Challenging 2030 Renewable Energy Target.

Nova Scotia's energy system operator, Johnny Johnston, is working to hit the province's 2030 renewable energy target of 80%. Johnston, formerly of Bloomberg, notes that the target is ambitious and close, with onshore wind and solar energy expected to drive the transition. Johnston, however, did not discount the possibility of nuclear energy production in Nova Scotia in the future.

Nova Scotia is making significant strides towards its 2030 renewable energy target of 80%. On August 19, 2025, PowerBank Corporation announced that three community solar projects in Nova Scotia received $1.74 million in funding through the Nova Scotia Department of Environment and Climate Changes, managed by the Net Zero Atlantic program [1].

The funding will be used to develop the Sydney, Brooklyn, and Petpeswick Community Solar projects, which will generate a total of 12.4 MW DC. PowerBank, an independent renewable and clean energy project developer, will lead the development and construction of these projects. The projects are 48% owned by AI Renewable Flow-through Fund and 52% owned by a non-profit organization or Potlotek First nation [1].

The Nova Scotia Community Solar Program (CSP) aims to add 100 MW of solar generation to the grid, helping to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and mitigate climate change. The program supports the province's goal of reaching net-zero electricity by 2035. By subscribing to these projects, community members can access renewable energy without installing panels on their property, earning credits on their electric bills and saving $0.02/kWh [1].

Johnny Johnston, Nova Scotia's energy system operator, is optimistic about the province's renewable energy transition. He notes that onshore wind and solar energy are expected to drive this transition, but he did not rule out the possibility of nuclear energy production in the future [2].

PowerBank Corporation has over 100 MW of completed projects and a 1+ GW development pipeline, positioning it as a high-growth player in the renewable energy sector. The company develops solar and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) projects that sell electricity to utilities, commercial, industrial, municipal, and residential off-takers [1].

References:
[1] https://solarbankcorp.com/community-solar-projects-receive-1-74-million-grant-from-net-zero-atlantic/
[2] https://www.novascotia.ca/energy