A renewable energy company based in Toronto is optimistic about Nova Scotia’s program to encourage the establishment of community “solar gardens.” PowerBank, specializing in solar energy and battery storage systems, has received approval for one project in Nova Scotia and has proposed two more under the province’s community solar initiative. Launched in 2024, the program supports community groups and organizations in setting up expansive fields of solar panels, referred to as solar gardens, to offer subscriptions for the clean electricity they generate.
Tracy Zheng, the chief commercial officer for PowerBank, expressed enthusiasm for the program, highlighting its benefits for all involved parties. PowerBank’s solar projects aim to assist Nova Scotia in achieving its target of generating 80% of its electricity from renewable sources while also lowering power costs for subscribing customers.
Under the provincial program, electricity generated from the solar gardens can be integrated into the Nova Scotia Power grid. Customers have the option to enroll for power from a solar garden without extra charges or physical connection to the source. Subscribers are expected to save two cents per kilowatt-hour on their electricity bills, equating to a reduction of 10 to 15%.
PowerBank is set to commence construction on a 4.8-megawatt project in Brooklyn, Annapolis County, in the upcoming spring, with the capacity to power approximately 630 homes annually. Additionally, two smaller projects are proposed near Antigonish and Bridgetown, with the latter still undergoing the approval process, requiring letters of support from the respective municipal governments.
Dustin Enslow, the deputy warden for the Municipality of Annapolis County, expressed receptiveness to the solar project, emphasizing its alignment with the region’s climate change action plans. PowerBank’s commitment to engaging local contractors for the construction and maintenance of the solar garden over a 25-year period was also praised.
Enslow noted that besides reducing power bills, the additional energy source from the solar project would enhance stability for residents in the community, especially in mitigating power outages. The municipality’s conditional support for PowerBank’s proposed project signifies recognition of its potential to contribute positively to local development and progress.
