EfficiencyOne files new five-year plan focused on affordability and long-term energy savings for Nova Scotians, delivering over $680 million in savings for Nova Scotians

For immediate release

April 1, 2026 – Halifax/Kjipuktuk, NS – EfficiencyOne, the non-profit administrator of Efficiency Nova Scotia, has filed its new five-year Demand-Side Management (DSM) Plan with the Nova Scotia Energy Board for approval. The Plan would come into effect January 1, 2027.

The 2027–2031 DSM Plan is expected to generate more than $680 million in electricity bill savings for ratepayers, helping households and businesses use less energy and use it more efficiently, and supporting Nova Scotia’s long-term energy and climate goals, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by over 380 kt.

At a time when affordability is top of mind for Nova Scotians, the Plan reflects current economic conditions. EfficiencyOne is proposing to hold DSM investment flat at the current 2026 level of $63.75 million annually, with no inflationary increases over the five-year period, resulting in a total planned investment of $318.75 million.

“Nova Scotians are navigating a challenging economic environment, and that reality has shaped our approach to this plan,” says Martha Casey, interim President and CEO of EfficiencyOne. “This is a responsible and responsive plan, one that recognizes the affordability pressures people are facing today, while continuing to deliver meaningful savings on energy bills both today and over the long term.”

“Energy efficiency plays a critical role in helping Nova Scotians manage costs and supporting the province’s long-term energy transition,” adds Casey. “This plan ensures we are responding to today’s realities while staying focused on the future.”

The 2027-2031 DSM Plan also builds on EfficiencyOne’s work in demand response, targeting 29.3 MW of available capacity from the electricity grid. Demand response programs support both residential and business customers to temporarily reduce or shift their electricity use during peak times to help balance the grid and avoid strain or outages.

Energy efficiency remains one of the most cost-effective ways to reduce electricity costs. The Plan is expected to deliver measurable benefits to customers. The 2027-2031 DSM Plan maintains a strong focus on accessibility and equity, with continued support for:

$152 million to help residential customers with $55 million of this dedicated for low-income households, including renters improve home comfort and reduce energy costs
$15 million to support Mi’kmaw communities reduce electricity costs while improving comfort and local economic benefits
$113 million for businesses seeking to manage operating costs through energy savings

“We stay closely connected to our customers and partners to understand what matters most,” says Casey. “In today’s environment, that means ensuring affordability is front and centre, helping Nova Scotians keep more money in their pockets today.”

About EfficiencyOne

EfficiencyOne, operating in Nova Scotia as Efficiency Nova Scotia, has a proven track record of success in designing and delivering resource efficiency programs and services for homes, businesses, and large industrial customers. To date, EfficiencyOne is saving Nova Scotians $5.6 billion in energy savings, including $628 million for low-income homeowners and renters, and avoiding the release of 12.7 megatonnes of greenhouse gas emissions. Learn more at efficiencyone.ca.

–30– For more information, contact:
Janet Tobin
Communications Manager
902-499-6494
jtobin@efficiencyns.ca

EfficiencyOne named one of Atlantic Canada’s Top Employers for 8th consecutive year

For immediate release

March 24, 2026 – Halifax/Kjipuktuk, NS—For the eighth year in a row, EfficiencyOne has been named one of Atlantic Canada’s Top Employers.

“We’re proud to be named one of Atlantic Canada’s Top Employers for the eighth consecutive year,” says Stephen MacDonald, President and CEO of EfficiencyOne, the non-profit operator of Efficiency Nova Scotia. “This recognition reflects the passion and dedication of our team. Their commitment is what makes our impact possible, and we’re grateful for the talent and care they bring to our work every day.

Over the past decade, EfficiencyOne has continued to be a leading employer and an organization where people are proud to work.

“Together, we’ve created a workplace where employees feel valued and motivated to show up each day and make a difference, helping people achieve their energy goals, save money, conserve resources, improve well-being, and fight climate change,” says MacDonald. “We’re proud of the supportive, results-focused culture we’ve built – one that celebrates success and recognizes the contributions of every team member.”

EfficiencyOne supports its employees with strong training and career development opportunities to build and sustain a high-performing workforce. The organization also has a strong focus on employee health and well-being, and professional development opportunities throughout the year. This commitment helps create a culture where employee growth is encouraged, achievements are celebrated, and every contribution is valued.

Now in its 17^th year, Atlantic Canada’s Top Employers is an editorial project that recognizes employers with exceptional human resources programs and forward-thinking workplace policies. More details on the award and all the winners can be found on the Canada’s Top Employers website here: https://www.canadastop100.com/atlantic.

About EfficiencyOne

EfficiencyOne, operating in Nova Scotia as Efficiency Nova Scotia, has a proven track record of success in designing and delivering resource efficiency programs and services for homes, businesses, and large industrial customers. To date, EfficiencyOne has achieved more than $5.6 billion in energy savings including over $628 million in savings for low-income homeowners and renters. Learn more at efficiencyone.ca

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For more information, contact:
Janet Tobin, Communication Manager
902-499-6494
jtobin@efficiencyns.ca

EfficiencyOne Announces Leadership Transition and Interim President and CEO Appointment

For Immediate Release

February 9, 2026 – Halifax/Kjipuktuk, NS – The Board of Directors for EfficiencyOne, the nonprofit administrator of Efficiency Nova Scotia, today announced that Martha Casey, Chief Operating Officer, has been appointed Interim President and CEO, effective March 28, 2026, following Stephen MacDonald’s decision to step down from his role.

Stephen will remain in his position through March 27, 2026, supporting a smooth and well-planned transition before departing the organization.

The Board of Directors has initiated a standard leadership transition process, beginning with the appointment of an Interim President and CEO while a recruitment process for a permanent President and CEO gets underway.

“After 14 years with the organization, including 10 as President and CEO, I feel ready for a new professional chapter,” says Stephen MacDonald, President and CEO, EfficiencyOne. “The organization is in a strong position with an exceptional Board of Directors and leadership team. I’m confident in Martha’s leadership and look forward to supporting a smooth transition through the end of March.”

“Stephen’s leadership has had a profound impact on EfficiencyOne,” says William (Bill) Lahey, Chair of the EfficiencyOne Board of Directors. “He has guided the organization through significant growth and change, strengthened our relationships with partners and funders, and helped build the strong, capable organization we see today.”

Martha joined EfficiencyOne as Chief Operating Officer in February 2024. Previously, she served as Interim Co-President and Chief Executive Officer and Vice President, Operations and Business Transformation with the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD), as well as Chief Operating Officer and later Chief Executive Officer of Volta.

“Martha brings deep experience, strong organizational knowledge, and a proven track record of leadership to the role,” says Lahey. “Her appointment ensures continuity and steady leadership during a critical planning year and reflects the Board’s confidence in the strength of the organization’s internal leadership.”

“Having worked closely with Stephen for the past two years, I’ve seen the commitment and intention he’s brought to more than a decade of leadership,” says Martha Casey, Chief Operating Officer, EfficiencyOne. “I’m honoured to step into the role of Interim President and CEO at the end of March. This is a strong organization with a clear purpose, talented people, and important work ahead.”

This leadership transition reflects EfficiencyOne’s strong governance and continuity.

“This is a thoughtful and well-planned transition,” Lahey adds. “The Board has a clear and deliberate process in place, and the organization remains well positioned as we move through this next phase. We are grateful for Stephen’s leadership and look forward to working closely with Martha and the Executive Leadership Team in the months ahead.”

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For more information, contact:
Janet Tobin
Communications Manager
902-499-6494
jtobin@efficiencyns.ca

About EfficiencyOne

EfficiencyOne, operating in Nova Scotia as Efficiency Nova Scotia, has a proven track record of success in designing and delivering resource efficiency programs and services for homes, businesses, and large industrial customers. EfficiencyOne also operates two subsidiaries, The Halifax Climate Investment, Innovation and Impact (HCi3) Fund, which supports carbon reduction initiatives through a combination of investments, grants, partnerships and capacity building and EfficiencyOne Services which extend our expertise in energy management, consulting, and service delivery. To date, EfficiencyOne is saving Nova Scotians $5.6 billion in energy savings, including $628 million for low-income homeowners and renters, and avoiding the release of 12.7 megatonnes of greenhouse gas emissions. Learn more at efficiencyone.ca.

EfficiencyOne files new 1-year DSM Plan extension application to reduce electricity costs for Nova Scotians and help meet net-zero climate commitments

For immediate release

April 30, 2025 – Halifax/Kjipuktuk, NS – Today EfficiencyOne, the nonprofit administrator of Efficiency Nova Scotia, filed its 2026 Demand Side Management (DSM) Plan extension application with the Nova Scotia Energy Board. The extension will help Nova Scotians lower their electricity bills by reducing their energy use, drive economic growth, all while helping the province meet its net-zero commitments under the Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act. The Plan extension will begin January 1, 2026.

This one-year legislated extension includes an investment of $63.75 million, and will lower electricity bills by more than $135 million and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by nearly 200,000 tonnes.

“This 2026 Plan ensures that more Nova Scotians benefit from Efficiency Nova Scotia’s rebates and support,” says Martha Casey, Chief Operating Officer, EfficiencyOne. “Including $13 million for low-income and equity program, and renters, and over $20 million for small businesses.”

In February 2024 the Province introduced the Energy Reform Act (ERA) designed to modernize Nova Scotia’s electricity system and enhance public utility regulation in the energy sector. This one-year extension will ensure that EfficiencyOne’s next five-year DSM Plan for the 2027-2031 period will consider the wider benefits of Demand Side Management. The 2027-2031 Plan will be the first five-year plan submitted by EfficiencyOne; previously E1 filed three-year DSM Plans for the periods of 2016-2018, 2020-2022, and 2023-2025. The shift to a five-year DSM Plan was introduced as an amendment to the Public Utilities Act in fall 2022 and will serve to provide greater certainty to the hundreds of businesses across Nova Scotia who work in the energy efficiency industry, reduce costs for ratepayers, and provide more flexibility in terms of program offerings and program design.

“This extension is very good news for our customers and EfficiencyOne,” adds Casey. “It ensures that the next five-year plan will be more robust and comprehensive and includes even more benefits from energy efficiency.”

Our 2026 DSM Plan Extension benefits all Nova Scotians:

$34 million for all residential customers, including $13 million for low-income and equity seeking Nova Scotians, including renters.
Approximately $30 million to support business, nonprofit, institutional customers, with $20 million for small businesses.

About EfficiencyOne

EfficiencyOne, operating in Nova Scotia as Efficiency Nova Scotia, has a proven track record of success in designing and delivering resource efficiency programs and services for homes, businesses, and large industrial customers. To date, EfficiencyOne is saving Nova Scotians $5.6 billion in energy savings including $628 million for low-income homeowners and renters and avoiding the release of 12.7 megatonnes of greenhouse gas emissions. Learn more at efficiencyone.ca

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For more information, contact:

Janet Tobin
Communication Manager
902-499-6494
jtobin@efficiencyns.ca

Nova Scotians saving $5.6 billion in energy savings since 2011, says EfficiencyOne Annual Report

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 24, 2025 – Halifax/Kjipuktuk, NS – EfficiencyOne, the nonprofit administrator of Efficiency Nova Scotia, released its 2024 Annual Report, titled: Transforming the way people us energy. The Report highlights not only achievement in energy savings and environmental benefits, but also in powering economic growth and building a skilled workforce within Nova Scotia’s expanding green energy sector.

Since 2011, Nova Scotians are saving $5.6 billionin lifetime energy savings, including over $628 million for low-income homeowners and renters.

“Affordability is a critical issue in Nova Scotia, especially as a province with relatively high electricity costs and one of the highest rates of energy poverty in Canada.” says Bill Lahey, founding Chair of the Board, EfficiencyOne and President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of King’s college. “Energy efficiency is a powerful tool for reducing energy bills and making life more affordable for Nova Scotians.”

Since 2011, business, non-profit, and institutional customers are saving $1.7 billionin lifetime energy savings.

“Lower energy costs don’t just help individual households; they make our entire economy more productive and competitive.” says Stephen MacDonald, President and CEO, EfficiencyOne. “Businesses participating in our programs can realize significant savings through our commercial and small business programs, savings that can be re-invested into their operations.”

2024 highlights include:

In 2024, Efficiency Nova Scotia programs avoided the release of 114,662 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions (CO2 e). That’s the equivalent of avoiding the use of over 42 million litres of oil.
Energy savings from all fuel sources achieved in 2024 are equivalent to the annual energy use of over 18,000 average Cape Breton households.
Since 2011, large commercial and industrial customers going through our programs are saving approximately $1.2 billion in lifetime energy savings.
Since 2011, Efficiency Nova Scotia programs are avoiding the release of 12.7 megatonnes of greenhouse gas emissions (CO2 eq) in the province. That’s the same as removing over 2.9 million gasoline powered passenger cars for one year.
The Efficiency Preferred Partner network includes over 460 businesses, including heat pumps installers, lighting specialists, solar photovoltaic installers, and builders, in a sector that employs over 5,000 Nova Scotians.

The report includes EfficiencyOne’s 2024 financial statements, along with details on how EfficiencyOne and its partners continued to support climate action across the province.

Meet a few of the businesses and community organizations utilizing EfficiencyOne’s programs and guidance to save energy, reduce costs, and create a more sustainable future: Annual Report – EfficiencyOne

About EfficiencyOne

EfficiencyOne, operating in Nova Scotia as Efficiency Nova Scotia, transforms the way people use energy. Together, we help people achieve their energy goals, save money, conserve resources, improve well being, and combat climate change.

Our role is to inform and motivate Nova Scotians to use less energy and enjoy the good things efficiency brings. Investing in energy efficiency comes with many benefits—lower heating bills, more comfortable spaces, improved air quality, more resilient buildings, local jobs, and lower emissions. Learn more at efficiencyone.ca.

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For more information, contact:

Janet Tobin
Communication Manager
902-499-6494
jtobin@efficiencyns.ca

EfficiencyOne Recognized as One of Canada’s Greenest Employers for 12th Consecutive Year

For immediate release

April 22, 2025 – Halifax/Kjipuktuk, NS – EfficiencyOne has once again been named one of Canada’s Greenest Employers, marking the 12th consecutive year the organization has received this prestigious recognition. The award celebrates employers across the country that have built a strong culture of environmental responsibility and sustainable workplace practices.

“We’re honoured to be recognized as one of Canada’s Greenest Employers for the 12th year in a row,” says Stephen MacDonald, President and CEO of EfficiencyOne. “Our team’s deep commitment to sustainability is at the core of everything we do. This recognition reflects the passion and dedication our employees bring to building a low-carbon future for Nova Scotia.”

MacDonald adds, “This award highlights the culture we’ve cultivated at EfficiencyOne—one that puts climate action, innovation, and people first.”

Since 2011, EfficiencyOne has worked to create a culture of sustainability and environmental awareness. Awards such as this demonstrate that the entire EfficiencyOne team are living our mission to help people achieve their energy goals, save money, conserve resources, improve wellbeing, and combat climate change. To view the full list of 2025 winners, visit: https://www.canadastop100.com/green/

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About the Competition Now in its 18th year, Canada’s Greenest Employers is part of the Canada’s Top 100 Employers project. This national competition recognizes companies that lead the way in fostering a culture of environmental awareness, offering standout sustainability programs, and drawing employees who value environmentally conscious workplaces.

About EfficiencyOne EfficiencyOne, operating in Nova Scotia as Efficiency Nova Scotia, is dedicated to transforming how energy is used across the province. We work with individuals, businesses, and communities to help them achieve their energy goals—saving money, conserving resources, and improving quality of life.

Since 2011, our work is helping businesses and homeowners save $4.8 billion in energy costs – savings that boost economic activity and create jobs, and avoiding the release of 10.3 megatonnes of greenhouse gas emissions (CO2 eq) in the province. Learn more at efficiencyone.ca.

For more information please contact:

Janet Tobin
Communications Manager
902-499-6494
jtobin@efficiencyns.ca

EfficiencyOne named one of Atlantic Canada’s Top Employers for 7th consecutive year

For immediate release

March 25, 2025 – Halifax/Kjipuktuk, NS—For the seventh year in a row, EfficiencyOne has been named one of Atlantic Canada’s Top Employers.

“We are honoured to have been chosen as one of Atlantic Canada’s Top Employers for the seventh year in a row,” says Stephen MacDonald, President and CEO of EfficiencyOne, the non-profit operator of Efficiency Nova Scotia. “This recognition is a significant achievement, and our success is a direct result of the dedication and passion of our incredible team. We truly couldn’t have made the impact we have without such a committed and talented group of people.”

Over the past decade, EfficiencyOne has established itself as an organization that people are proud to work for.

“Together, we’ve built an organization where employees feel valued and inspired to come to work every day to help people achieve their energy goals, save money, conserve resources, improve well-being, and fight climate change,” says MacDonald. “We’re incredibly proud of the positive, growth-oriented culture we’ve fostered, one that celebrates success and acknowledges the contributions of every team member.”

Among the many benefits for employees, EfficiencyOne prioritizes training and career development opportunities that build and maintain a talented, high-performing workforce, encourages employees to prioritize their health and wellness, and supports fun and creativity through social activities throughout the year. EfficiencyOne prides itself on fostering a culture that celebrates success, promotes and encourages growth, and recognizes the contributions of the entire team.

Now in its 16^th year, Atlantic Canada’s Top Employers is an editorial project that recognizes employers with exceptional human resources programs and forward-thinking workplace policies. More details on the award and all the winners can be found on the Canada’s Top Employers website here: https://www.canadastop100.com/atlantic.

About EfficiencyOne

EfficiencyOne, operating in Nova Scotia as Efficiency Nova Scotia, has a proven track record of success in designing and delivering resource efficiency programs and services for homes, businesses, and large industrial customers. To date, EfficiencyOne has achieved more than $4.8 billion in energy savings including over $500 million in savings for low-income homeowners and renters. Learn more at efficiencyone.ca

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For more information, contact:
Janet Tobin, Communication Manager
902-499-6494
jtobin@efficiencyns.ca

Spurring business growth in Dartmouth

News release

Government of Canada investments support new jobs, modern equipment and efficiency upgrades

March 13, 2025 · Dartmouth, Nova Scotia · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

Atlantic Canadian businesses are working hard to become more efficient, productive and competitive while creating good paying jobs and promoting made-in-Canada products. The Government of Canada is helping businesses scale up manufacturing, adopt environmentally-friendly technology, and reach new markets while generating sustainable growth.

Today, the Honourable Darren Fisher, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence and Member of Parliament for Dartmouth – Cole Harbour, announced an intention to invest (pending contract signatures) a total of $7,031,975 to 11 organizations in Dartmouth. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA, and the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources.

The investment will help businesses grow their workforces, streamline operations, increase production, reach new markets, and prioritize energy efficiency. For more information about the funding recipients and projects, please see the backgrounder.

Today’s announcement further demonstrates the Government of Canada’s commitment to help Canadian businesses develop sustainable solutions and increase productivity, helping create a more prosperous future for the region.

Quotes

“Companies in Dartmouth—Cole Harbour are doing big things, and our government is here to help them grow and provide good jobs here at home. These companies are not only choosing Canada—they’re choosing to start and grow their businesses here in Dartmouth, unlocking opportunities for our region.”
– The Honourable Darren Fisher, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence and Member of Parliament for Dartmouth-Cole Harbour

“Your federal government, through ACOA, is backing local companies that are creating good jobs and new opportunities in the Dartmouth area. By finding more sustainable ways to do business, they’re giving customers more choices to support local and keep investment in our communities. That’s a win for everyone.”
– The Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA

“Energy efficiency means cost savings for Canadians. Investing in energy efficiency helps Canadian industrial facilities improve their competitiveness in the global economy. We are pleased to support EfficiencyOne Nova Scotia through the Green Industrial Facilities and Manufacturing Program. The project’s reduction of energy usage will result in more energy savings in the industrial sector, which is a win for the environment and a win for affordability for Canadian manufacturers.”
– The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources

Quick facts

$3,031,975 of the funding announced today is provided through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency’s (ACOA) Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program.
The REGI program helps businesses speed up their growth so they can be more productive, compete on the world stage and reach new markets by making the most of new technologies, improving productivity and creating new products.
Natural Resources Canada is providing $4 million toward the EfficiencyOne project (see backgrounder), through its Green Industrial Facilities and Manufacturing Program (GIFMP).

To read the full press release through ACOA, click here.

Climate Change Funding for Seafood Companies; Another Call for Applications

For immediate release

February 28, 2025– Halifax/Kjipuktuk, NS— Fourteen seafood companies and related organizations across the province are receiving funding to help reduce their carbon footprint.

The projects, supported through the Fisheries and Aquaculture Energy Efficiency Innovation Fund, range from the first zero-emission electric lobster boat in Canada to solar power at lobster and bait facilities.

“Addressing climate change continues to be a priority for our government,” said Kent Smith, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture. “Funding for these seafood organizations will help support our efforts to respond to climate change, reducing fossil fuel use and greenhouse gas emissions, as well as reduce costs for industry.”

The fund is a $6.5-million, three-year program that supports new projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions produced by boats, buildings and other commercial fisheries and aquaculture operations.

The Province is now accepting applications for the fund’s second round. Examples of eligible projects include:

adapting emerging electric and hybrid technology for fishing vessels and fleets
installing renewable energy systems
reducing emissions through equipment upgrades and new technology
conducting research to enable future emission-reduction projects.

The deadline for applications is April 11.

Quotes:

“The fisheries and aquaculture industry plays a vital role in Nova Scotia, generating significant economic benefits and employment opportunities across the province. Energy efficiency improves these economic benefits through cost reductions, helping organizations enhance long-term productivity and competitiveness. When organizations invest in energy efficiency, they can improve equipment lifespans, increase operational resilience and solidify their position as a global leader in the industry.”
— Stephen MacDonald, President and CEO, EfficiencyOne

“This fund represents a direct investment into members of the Nova Scotia Seafood Alliance and the seafood sector to reduce their bottom line by increasing efficiency, mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and reducing the biggest costs they have for operation – energy. At the same time, the reputational benefits of moving the industry to a low-emission model will elevate Nova Scotia seafood products above their competitors on the shelves in premium markets worldwide. This is a win-win for everyone involved.”
— Kris Vascotto, Executive Director, Nova Scotia Seafood Alliance

“The Province’s support to build and demonstrate the first all-electric lobster boat is an important step in developing Membertou’s sustainable fishery for future generations. The electric boat will play an important role in building trust in battery-electric propulsion as a viable solution for decarbonizing Canada’s commercial fishery.”
— Chief Terry Paul, CEO, Membertou

Quick Facts:

the Nova Scotia Fisheries and Aquaculture Loan Board will make available $10 million over three years in dedicated lending to support eligible applicants
the fund is a commitment in Our Climate, Our Future: Nova Scotia’s Climate Change Plan for Clean Growth
the Department of Energy provided $2 million to the fund

Additional Resources:

More information on the Fisheries and Aquaculture Energy Efficiency Innovation Fund is available at: https://www.efficiencyns.ca/business/business-types/agriculture/fisheries-and-aquaculture-energy-efficiency-innovation-fund/

Fisheries and Aquaculture Loan Board lending program: https://nsfishloan.ca/energy-efficiency

Our Climate, Our Future: Nova Scotia’s Climate Change Plan for Clean Growth: https://climatechange.novascotia.ca/sites/default/files/uploads/ns-climate-change-plan.pdf

Approved projects:

Bill and Stanley Oyster Company Ltd. – $250,000 to implement an electric work boat and electric forklift at a shellfish farm
BMC Seafoods Limited – $100,000 to implement an energy-efficient heat exchanger that will reduce electricity costs at a live lobster holding facility
Brazil Rock Lobster Association – $100,000 to install solar and wind-power on 18-member lobster vessels
Glas Ocean Electric – $198,225 towards a data logging study on five harbours/wharves which will involve 20 vessels
Havre Boucher Seafoods Inc. – $250,000 to implement a fully electric aluminum work boat with vessel-to-grid charging capability at a shellfish farm
Ignite (Atlantic) – $150,000 toward a study to develop a marine electrification roadmap for the communities of Digby and Sheet Harbour
L. Walker Seafoods – $30,000 toward an energy efficient condenser with floating head pressure control at a live lobster holding facility
Little Harbour Fisheries – $9,848 to install solar panels and convert energy usage to a renewable source at a bait storage facility
Membertou Fisheries Inc. – $250,000 toward the first zero-emission electric lobster fishing boat in Canada
NovaShell Fisheries – $70,000 toward an energy-efficient heat exchanger with floating head pressure control at a new live lobster holding facility
R. Baker Fisheries Limited – $86,500 to install advanced refrigeration units that will reduce energy consumption at a seafood processing facility
Red Fish Blue Fish Incorporated – $14,871 to install a solar photovoltaic system with battery storage at a commercial bait storage facility
Strait of Canso Superport Corporation – $250,000 toward a charging station for electric vessels
Yarmouth Bar Fisheries – $50,000 toward solar installation that will result in a net-zero seafood processing/live holding facility

Read the original press release here.

Seafood Industry Energy Efficiency Program Announcement

For immediate release

June 11, 2024– Halifax/Kjipuktuk, NS— The seafood sector across Nova Scotia will be able to do more to reduce its carbon footprint with the new Fisheries and Aquaculture Energy Efficiency Innovation Fund.

The program will support new projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions produced by boats, buildings and other commercial fisheries and aquaculture operations. Funding is also available to support adoption of clean technology in the sector.

“Our industries are already leaders in fighting climate change through the investments they’re making to reduce energy use,” said Kent Smith, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture. “With this new funding, they’ll be able to do even more to build a sustainable future and grow while helping Nova Scotia get to net zero.”

Proposals are being accepted for projects that:

adapt emerging electric and hybrid technology for fishing vessels and fleets
install renewable energy systems
reduce emissions through equipment upgrades and new technology
conduct research to enable future emission-reduction projects.

The Province is investing $6.5 million in the three-year program.

The Nova Scotia Fisheries and Aquaculture Loan Board has also created a dedicated lending program connected to the new fund. If needed, funding recipients can apply for a loan with reduced interest rates to support approved projects, making the program more accessible.

To launch the program, two demonstration studies on electric vessel conversion are being funded. Glas Ocean Electric, Halifax, will receive $198,000 to work with industry in northern Nova Scotia and Cape Breton. Ignite Atlantic, a Yarmouth-based rural innovation hub, will receive $150,000 to support the sector in Digby and Sheet Harbour.

Quotes:

“The fishing and aquaculture industries play a pivotal role here in Nova Scotia and internationally. The industry generates significant revenue and employment opportunities across the province, supporting the livelihoods of tens of thousands of people. Investments in energy efficiency will lower costs, increase competitiveness and further position the sector as a global leader.”
— Stephen MacDonald, President and CEO, EfficiencyOne, the non-profit operator of Efficiency Nova Scotia

“Our members have invested heavily to improve efficiency of operations with the co-operation of the Province through the Atlantic Fisheries Fund to pursue refrigeration upgrades, on-site energy retrofits and renewable energy systems, all with a goal of reducing operational costs and greenhouse gas emissions. Today’s announcement will guarantee that this good work will go on and the Nova Scotia shore-based fish and seafood sector will continue to be leaders in this important work from their operations that feed a growing world.”
— Kris Vascotto, Executive Director, Nova Scotia Seafood Alliance

Quick Facts:

the Nova Scotia Fisheries and Aquaculture Loan Board will make available $10 million over three years in dedicated lending to support eligible applicants
working with an on-site manager from EfficiencyOne, members of the industry have carried out 100 efficiency projects, reducing emissions by more than 5,600 tonnes – equal to taking 11,000 cars off the road – over the past three years
the fund is a commitment in Our Climate, Our Future: Nova Scotia’s Climate Change Plan for Clean Growth
the Department of Natural Resources and Renewables provided $2 million to the fund

Additional Resources:

Program details and application forms: https://www.efficiencyns.ca/business/business-types/agriculture/fisheries-and-aquaculture-energy-efficiency-innovation-fund/

Fisheries and Aquaculture Loan Board lending program: https://nsfishloan.ca/energy-efficiency

Our Climate, Our Future: Nova Scotia’s Climate Change Plan for Clean Growth: https://climatechange.novascotia.ca/sites/default/files/uploads/ns-climate-change-plan.pdf

Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act: https://nslegislature.ca/sites/default/files/legc/statutes/environmental%20goals%20and%20climate%20change%20reduction.pdf

Fisheries and Aquaculture on X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/NSFisheries

Read the full release through Government of Nova Scotia, here.

EfficiencyOne files new five-year plan focused on affordability and long-term energy savings for Nova Scotians, delivering over $680 million in savings for Nova Scotians