November 13, 2017 — More solar panels will be installed across southwestern Novia Scotia through the Solar Electricity for Community Buildings Pilot Program.

The announcement was made by Zach Churchill on behalf of Geoff MacLellan, Nova Scotia’s energy minister.

“This is about more community groups in Yarmouth and Argyle participating in clean electricity generation, advancing the solar industry and learning about how solar fits into our energy mix,” said Churchill.

The Town of Yarmouth has been approved to generate up to 50 kW of solar electricity. The municipality districts of Yarmouth and Argyle each received two approvals of 100 kW and 75 kW, respectively.

The groups will sell their solar generated electricity back to their utility through a 20-year Power Purchase Agreement.

“The Town of Yarmouth knows that the best results come when we collaborate, as municipalities. This project was identified as a priority for council and we are looking forward to the next steps in this exciting project,” said Yarmouth Mayor Pam Mood. “Yarmouth is committed to sustainability and this project is about supporting a sustainable and green future.”

A total of 18 successful applications were chosen across the province. Clean Foundation, the independent procurement administrator, oversaw all applications. The impact to ratepayers is capped at 0.1%, which is already built into the rate stability plan, says the government of Nova Scotia.

The Solar Electricity for Community Buildings Pilot Program is for Mi’kmaw communities, registered non-profit or charitable organizations, municipalities or organizations owned by municipalities, universities or community colleges in Nova Scotia. It will be offered for two more years.