Strait Talk Ep. 37

Port Hawkesbury Paper (PHP) is receiving a $224.2 million loan from the Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) to develop a wind energy project in Guysborough County.

The Goose Harbour Lake Wind Farm will feature 24 Nordex N163-7.0MW cold-climate turbines with a 118-metre hub height and anti-icing blade technology. The project is expected to generate 168 megawatts of zero-emission, sustainable electricity.

At its peak, construction will create 150 jobs, while up to five permanent positions will be maintained during operations. The project is also expected to drive economic development in the region, with commercial operations slated to begin in 2026.

“Our investment in major projects like the Goose Harbour Lake Wind Farm, along with ongoing capital upgrades and maintenance programs, demonstrates our commitment to long-term success,” said Ron Stern, President of PHP and PHP Wind. “We are proud to work with our partners to advance this initiative, which aligns with our mission to produce top-quality forest products while fostering a sustainable and environmentally responsible workplace.”

RES Canada Construction LP is leading the build.

The CIB’s loan will also support 13 Mi'kmaw First Nations, represented by Wskijinu'k Mtmo'taqnuow Agency Ltd. (WMA), in acquiring a 10 percent stake in the project. This marks the second Indigenous equity loan to WMA, following a previous investment in a Nova Scotia energy storage project.

“Our partnership with PHP Wind and the CIB represents more than an investment in renewable energy—it’s a step toward empowering our Mi'kmaq communities,” said Crystal Nicholas, President of WMA. “By securing a stake in this initiative, we support Nova Scotia's clean energy transition while fostering job creation, industry growth, and economic development.”

The project is funded under the CIB’s $10 billion Clean Power priority sector, which aims to close financing gaps in renewable energy, district energy systems, and energy storage.

“The Goose Harbour Lake Wind project is a key part of Nova Scotia’s transition to clean energy and will significantly cut carbon emissions,” said Cape Breton-Canso MP Mike Kelloway. “This investment will create jobs and deliver lasting economic benefits to the region.”

The wind farm is expected to reduce annual emissions by over 350,000 tonnes, equivalent to 2.4 percent of Nova Scotia’s 2021 emissions. The project will also support the province’s transition from coal to renewable energy sources.

“Nova Scotia is moving away from fossil fuels toward clean, renewable energy like wind,” said Energy Minister Trevor Boudreau. “This project enhances energy security, supports the green economy, and helps achieve our net-zero goals. We commend PHP for its commitment to both sustainable forestry and clean energy development.”