Nova Scotia Seeks Diverse On-Demand Energy Projects Through New RFQ
Nova Scotia's Independent Energy System Operator has issued a request for qualifications for technology-neutral, on-demand energy generation and storage projects. The initiative lists ten potential technologies, including small modular nuclear reactors, and runs parallel to an earlier request for natural gas backup facilities.
Nova Scotia’s Independent Energy System Operator (IESO) has issued a request for qualifications (RFQ) seeking technology-neutral, on-demand energy generation and storage projects to address grid reliability. In an Oct. 30 news release, IESO vice-president of planning and procurement Chris Milligan stated that no single technology can meet all of Nova Scotia’s future electricity needs.
The RFQ lists ten ideas for on-demand power sources: battery energy storage, pumped hydro storage, long-duration energy storage, geothermal generation, biomass generation, thermal generation, hydrogen combustion generation, hydrogen fuel cell generation, small modular reactor generation, and hybrid facilities. Projects submitted must be located in Nova Scotia, capable of delivering at least 10 megawatts of electricity storage or generation capacity, and support Mi’kmaw participation and economic development opportunities. The deadline for submissions is Jan. 30, 2027, with projects potentially eligible for procurement in the spring.
This initiative runs parallel to an earlier effort by the IESO, which issued a request for proposals (RFP) in July for long-term contracts to build generating facilities primarily using natural gas with diesel backup for peak demand periods.
During a Nova Scotia Federation of Municipalities conference, Antigonish Councillor Leon MacLellan argued that nuclear options are necessary to reach zero emissions from burning coal. Coal-fired generation currently provides about 40 per cent of Nova Scotia’s system electricity and is scheduled to be eliminated by 2030.
Matt Drover, vice-president of strategy with Nova Scotia Power, confirmed that the IESO’s RFQ includes small modular reactors as an option, noting that a moratorium on nuclear generation in Nova Scotia was recently lifted.
Discussions at the conference also touched on affordability. Westville Councillor Danielle Fraser criticized Nova Scotia Power for discussing cost reductions while the CEO’s salary is nearly $2 million.