More solar panels will be popping up in Cape Breton through the Solar Electricity for Community Buildings Pilot Program announced on Nov. 10, by Municipal Affairs Minister Derek Mombourquette on behalf of Energy Minister Geoff MacLellan.

“Nova Scotians have been clear, they want long-term, sustainable and affordable energy that addresses climate change,” said Mr. Mombourquette. “This is a great opportunity for Sydney to get more involved in clean electricity generation, and build knowledge and skills in our community.”

Through the solar program Cape Breton University and Tugliq Energy Co. have been approved to generate up to 150 kilowatts on various buildings at the university. They will collaborate to sell their solar generated electricity back to their utility through a 20-year Power Purchase Agreement.

“We are pleased to work with Cape Breton University,” said Pierre Rivard, chairman of Tugliq Energy Co. “This project will provide learning and research opportunities as we transition towards less carbon-intensive sources.”
In Inverness County, We’koqma’q First Nation Band Council’s application to the program was also successful.
A total of 18 successful applications were chosen across the province. All applications were overseen by Clean Foundation, the independent procurement administrator. The impact to ratepayers is capped at 0.1 per cent, which is already built into the rate stability plan.

The program is ...