February 8, 2012 – Renewable electricity projects in four more Nova Scotia communities are set to move ahead after yesterday’s announcement of the next round of Community Feed-In Tariff (COMFIT) approvals.

Energy minister Charlie Parker announced that applications from the Halifax Regional Water Commission, Town of New Glasgow, Bowater Mersey and Celtic Current have been approved to proceed with the next phase of development. The announcement was made at the Kaizer Meadow Environmental Management Facility in Chester, which also celebrated recent COMFIT project approval.

Details of the projects:
• The Halifax Regional Water Commission is proposing a large-wind project located in Lake Major, near Preston.
• The Town of New Glasgow is proposing a small-wind turbine located at the Forbes Lake water treatment facility. The town expects the turbine to be operational shortly.
• Bowater Mersey is planning a combined heat and power biomass project at its Brooklyn energy plant. The company will install a turbine and generator to improve waste heat recovery from steam generated at the facility. The captured steam can then be converted into electricity.
• Celtic Current is proposing a wind-generated project in Mulgrave Celtic Current is primarily owned and operated by Nova Scotia residents and aims to contribute power to the province’s electrical grid. This project will be a partnership between Celtic Current and Zutphen Wind.
• The Municipality of the District of Chester is planning a large-wind project at the Kaizer Meadow Environmental Management landfill facility. The project will be fully owned by the municipality.

“These projects harness the energy of their communities in more ways than one,” said Parker. “Not only do they use local resources for the good of the surrounding area, they bring neighbours together in a spirit of co-operation and self-sufficiency.”

The 2010 Renewable Electricity Plan introduced the COMFIT concept to help “provide a secure supply of clean energy at stable prices, build support for renewable energy projects and create jobs”. The program began accepting applications several months ago. Reportedly, more than a dozen community groups have submitted 90+ proposals so far, with the bulk of applications expected to be processed by the spring.

Glasgow mayor Barrie MacMillan said installing a wind turbine follows through with the community’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability.

“The Town of New Glasgow is proud to be a partner with the province through its COMFIT program,” said MacMillan. “This project will significantly reduce our electricity costs and help us meet our energy reduction targets.

The COMFIT application process is still open. Potential applicants are encouraged to contact the COMFIT administrator at ComFit@gov.ns.ca as early as possible to discuss projects.

CLICK HERE to apply or for more information on the program.