by Dan Roscoe, President of Renewall
While the transition will bring its own set of challenges, the long-term benefits—economic, environmental, and public health-related—are expected to be transformative for Nova Scotians. In this blog, we’ll explore the impact of eliminating coal, the opportunities it presents, and the road ahead.
Nova Scotia has relied heavily on coal for decades. Currently, power plants burning coal and coke provide 52% of the province's electricity, making it one of the most coal-dependent regions in Canada. This reliance comes at a cost. The majority of the coal used is imported from the U.S. and South America, which means millions of dollars leave the province each year to pay for fossil fuels. This is money that could otherwise be reinvested locally, strengthening our economy.
In addition to the financial burden, coal-fired plants are a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions. Nova Scotia’s energy sector has historically been one of the largest contributors to the province’s carbon footprint. However, Nova Scotia has pledged to reduce its emissions by 53% below 2005 levels by 2030—in line with Canada’s climate commitments—a target that hinges on phasing out coal.
Beyond the environmental impact, the health implications of continuing to rely on coal are profound. Coal-fired plants release pollutants such as sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter, all of which contribute to respiratory diseases, asthma, and heart conditions. Nova Scotia, in fact, has some of the highest lung cancer rates in the country—a statistic that emphasizes the urgency of transitioning to cleaner energy.
Phasing out coal will lead to cleaner air, reducing the pollutants that harm public health. For Nova Scotians, this means not just better overall health, but also improved quality of life. Cleaner air can lead to fewer hospitalizations, less chronic illness, and potentially lower mortality rates related to air pollution.
The move away from coal is also expected to bring a range of economic benefits.
Keeping Money in Nova Scotia: By transitioning to locally generated renewable energy sources such as wind and solar, Nova Scotia can reduce its reliance on imported fuels. This shift will help keep more money within the province, bolstering the local economy and creating new job opportunities in the renewable energy sector.
Lower Energy Costs in the Long Run: Renewables like wind and solar have significantly lower operating costs compared to coal. As more renewable energy comes online, consumers can expect to see more stable and predictable energy prices, shielded from the volatility of global coal markets. In addition, renewable energy projects tend to have longer-term fixed costs, reducing the risk of unexpected price hikes.
Reduced Healthcare Costs: Lowering air pollution by eliminating coal will not only improve public health but also lessen the burden on Nova Scotia's healthcare system. With fewer cases of respiratory diseases, heart conditions, and other pollution-related health issues, healthcare costs may decrease, benefiting both the public and taxpayers.
The phase-out of coal is only part of the solution. To meet growing energy demand and ensure a stable energy supply, Nova Scotia will need to invest in renewable energy infrastructure. The province plans to add 1,500 MW of wind energy by 2030, which will help reduce emissions and enhance energy independence.
However, renewable energy sources like wind and solar are intermittent, which means they don’t generate electricity consistently throughout the day. To overcome this at scale, Nova Scotia will need to invest in energy storage technologies such as battery systems, as well as upgrade its grid to manage the variable nature of renewables. These upgrades will also support the electrification of transportation and heating, such as through electric vehicles (EVs) and heat pumps.
While the transition to renewables offers a multitude of benefits, it also comes with challenges. As the province’s population grows and the electrification of transportation and heating increases, managing energy demand will be critical. Implementing demand-response systems, which adjust energy consumption during peak times, will help maintain grid stability.
Collaboration between the government and private sector is also essential. Public-private partnerships will drive innovation, investment, and the necessary infrastructure improvements to support the transition to renewable energy. Moreover, it’s important to address the economic displacement that coal workers and coal-dependent communities in Nova Scotia and other Atlantic provinces may face. Retraining programs and economic support will not only be vital, but a moral obligation to ensure a just transition for those affected by the coal phase-out.
The vision of a post-coal Nova Scotia is one of healthier communities, a stronger economy, and greater energy independence. Improved air quality will lead to lower health risks, while investments in renewable energy and sustainable industries will stimulate economic growth. By sourcing energy locally, Nova Scotia will be more resilient to fluctuations in global energy markets, ensuring a stable and sustainable future.
Ending coal use in Nova Scotia isn’t just about transitioning to cleaner energy, it’s about securing a healthier, more prosperous future for everyone in the province. From public health improvements to economic growth, the benefits of phasing out coal far outweigh the challenges. By embracing renewable energy, Nova Scotians can look forward to a brighter, more sustainable tomorrow.
As we move toward 2030, the key to success lies in collaboration, innovation, and a collective commitment to a cleaner future.