Topic:"Environmental Compliance" in M08929

Environmental Assessment 24 25 The Hatch Report completes costing for each of the 17 river systems to have an 26 Environmental Assessment (EA) completed and sedimentation managed. These costs are 27 based on a thorough literature review of...

AI summary The Hatch Report provides costing for the environmental assessment and sedimentation management of 17 river systems, based on a literature review of dam decommissioning estimates and actual costs. The sites were analyzed using a matrix based on environmental risk and cost.

1 Power sites were then fit into this matrix to generate site specific cost estimates for 2 decommissioning EAs. The costs to pursue a full EA include the costs to engage with the 3 Mi’kmaq and consult with stakeholders. 4 5 The Nova Scoti...

AI summary The text discusses the process of estimating decommissioning costs for power sites, including engagement with the Mi’kmaq and stakeholders, and the impact of the Nova Scotia Wetland Conservation Policy on wetland permitting costs. The Strum Report is referenced, noting that while wetland permitting costs are not significant, potential compensation costs may arise from environmental assessments.

31 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Hydro Asset Study REDACTED 1 3.6 Harmony Hydroelectric System 2 3 The Harmony hydro system was partially decommissioned in 2017. At that time the 4 original 700 kW powerhouse was removed. The...

AI summary The Harmony hydro system was partially decommissioned in 2017, with the original 700 kW powerhouse removed. Current maintenance includes the reservoir, spillway, dam, and fish passage. Decommissioning may affect known petroglyphs, requiring further assessment. Estimated costs include removal, environmental, sedimentation, and archaeology, totaling $5,360,000.

CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) REDACTED Hydro Asset Study Appendix B Page 27 of 110 Nova Scotia Power Inc. Project Management Report Decommissioning Cost Estimate for NSPI Control Project Management Sturctures H357345 NSPI's Hydro Syste...

AI summary This document outlines Nova Scotia Power Inc.'s decommissioning cost estimate for the Black River Generating System, including removal and environmental costs, as well as sediment management allowances.

d disposal costs. x Land Ownership - compensation to land owners related to depreciated land values and altered uses. x Lost or altered recreational uses. x Loss of revenue to local businesses. x Protection and/or moving cultural heritage...

AI summary The text outlines various costs associated with the decommissioning of a dam, including disposal costs, compensation to landowners, loss of revenue to local businesses, and environmental considerations. It also mentions the need for studies and consultations to quantify environmental impacts.

undertake the environmental assessment portion of the decommissioning project. The actual costs to implement the considerations are not included in the costs estimates. 3.3.1 Dam Size Dam height and resulting reservoir volume and surface a...

AI summary The text discusses the environmental assessment of a decommissioning project, emphasizing that the actual costs of implementing environmental considerations are not included in the cost estimates. It highlights how dam size affects the cost of environmental assessments, particularly due to increased field study requirements for larger reservoirs.

ace areas may also lead to a higher number of different types of habitat which may require more detailed habitat and impact assessments, thus increasing cost. The removal of each of the dams will result in a lowering of the corresponding l...

AI summary The text discusses the environmental and cost implications of dam removal, including changes in lake morphology, loss of wetland areas, and potential increases in peak flood flows due to reduced storage capacity. These factors may lead to more detailed habitat assessments and higher costs.

CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) REDACTED Hydro Asset Study Appendix B Page 78 of 110 Nova Scotia Power Inc. Project Management Report Decommissioning Cost Estimate for NSPI Control Project Management Sturctures H357345 NSPI's Hydro Syste...

AI summary The document discusses the anticipated increase in flow velocities and potential erosion following the decommissioning of NSPI's hydro structures. It also mentions the need to consider impacts on fisheries during the removal of water retention structures.

The potential impacts on the fish species and any fisheries on the reservoir and/or associated rivers will need to be considered in the removal of the water retentions structures. The lowering of water levels and altered flow regimes will...

AI summary The removal of water retention structures may impact fish species and fisheries by altering aquatic environments, increasing sediment levels, and reducing lake habitats. These changes could affect fish lifecycle processes, water quality, and fish health.

of the lakes will result in a reduction in lake habitat and fish which prefer lake habitat as the waterbodies are transformed back to their pre-dam condition. The presence of commercial, recreational or Aboriginal fisheries on the reservoi...

AI summary The removal of the dam on the lakes may lead to a reduction in lake habitat and fish populations. The involvement of the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) is anticipated if there are commercial, recreational, or Aboriginal fisheries. Various studies, including multi-season field programs and habitat mapping, would be required to assess environmental impacts and develop mitigation measures.

ly, listed species require more detailed assessments than unlisted ones and compensation negotiations and implementation tend to lengthier and more expensive. 3.3.3 Indigenous Community/Stakeholder Interest The degree of stakeholder or Ind...

AI summary The decommissioning of dams may involve higher costs due to the need for detailed assessments of listed species, extended compensation negotiations, and increased stakeholder and Indigenous Community engagement. Archaeological value and potential artifacts also contribute to increased costs, which are not included in the current estimate.

associated with archaeological assessments and activities are not included in this cost estimate, as these are being developed on behalf of NSPI by other parties. Cost estimates developed during this exercise include stakeholder and indige...

AI summary The text discusses cost estimates for a project, noting that archaeological assessments and certain stakeholder engagement activities are included, but treaty-related compensation and other non-typical costs are excluded. It also highlights potential recreational impacts and the need for site-specific studies to assess socio-economic and additional costs.

could include compensation to neighbouring property owners and/commercial interests. These compensatory costs are not included in the estimates derived for this report. 3.3.5 Sediment Management As noted previously, dams have the potential...

AI summary The text discusses sediment management challenges related to dam removal, highlighting the potential for significant sediment deposition and its environmental impacts, including effects on water quality, nutrients, and aquatic habitats.

measures (e.g., dredging, excavation, disposal) as well as riverbank stabilization and fish habitat restoration measures be properly identified, and the true costs established. 3.3.6 Flood Reduction Removal of the dams would result in chan...

AI summary The removal of dams would alter water levels and river flows, impacting ecological features and habitats. While some areas may return to pre-dam conditions over time, the restoration of natural flow regimes is expected to provide long-term environmental benefits.

oning Cost Estimate x Annapolis x Black River (Gaspereau Lake) x St. Margaret’s Bay x Tusket In preparing these estimates, both direct and indirect costs were assessed to address the various environmental effects. The costs included studie...

AI summary The text discusses the assessment of environmental costs for decommissioning several sites, including direct and indirect costs related to mitigation measures, habitat restoration, and infrastructure relocation. A cost matrix based on precedent examples is used to categorize environmental costs for decommissioning.

NSPI's Hydro System Decommissioning Cost Estimate Table 19: Scoring Criteria for the Environmental and Social Components Identified Stakeholder Contaminated Environmental Associated Interest / Sediment / Component Fisheries Recreational Us...

AI summary The document discusses the scoring criteria for environmental and social components related to NSPI's Hydro System Decommissioning Cost Estimate. It outlines how scores for each component are summed to generate an environmental division score, which is used as a benchmark for estimating environmental costs associated with dam decommissioning projects.

Estimated Environmental System Basis of Estimate Costs in $ 2018 CDN Annapolis Comprehensive 2,287,500 Avon Precedent 5,335,000 Bear River Precedent 12,012,000 Black River Precedent/Comprehensive 28,883,000 3 Dickie Brook Precedent 3,883,0...

AI summary The text provides estimated environmental system costs for various locations in Nova Scotia, with costs ranging from $726,000 to $28,883,000 in 2018 CDN. Each location is associated with a specific basis of estimate, such as 'Precedent' or 'Comprehensive'.

that are released, how far will they travel, where will they be redeposited, and will sediment re-deposition change the river channel or the floodplain? 4. What are the ecological consequences of removal the dam on both resident and anadro...

AI summary The text discusses the environmental impacts of dam removal, focusing on sediment re-deposition, changes to river channels and floodplains, and the ecological consequences for aquatic species, including potential harm to fish and mussel populations due to increased turbidity and sedimentation.

n, management and removal of reservoir sediments (quantity and quality of sediments is unknown). x Hazardous material abatement (lead, asbestos). x Large scale re-vegetation measures of the newly exposed reservoir slopes or exposed canal s...

AI summary The text outlines various environmental and infrastructure-related measures required for a project, including sediment management, hazardous material abatement, re-vegetation, and archaeological consulting. It also discusses the significant cost implications of sediment management, which could exceed 50% of infrastructure removal costs.

System - As Applied in Engineering, Procurement, and Construction for the Hydropower Industry TCM Framework: 7.3 - Cost Estimating and Budgeting . January 25, 2013. 2. Pansic, N., Austin, R.J. and Finis, M. Sediment Management for Dam Deco...

AI summary The text lists references to technical documents and studies related to dam decommissioning, sediment management, and environmental considerations in hydropower projects, including works by Pansic, Donnelly, and others, as well as an inflation calculator from the Bank of Canada.

8. Doyle, Martin D., Stanley, Emily H. and Harbor, Jon M. Channel Adjustments following two Dam Removals in Wisconsin. s.l. : Water Resources Research Vol. 39, 2003. 9. Kundell, James E. and Rasmussen, Todd C. Evaluatingthe Erosion Measure...

AI summary The text lists several academic publications and a government resource related to water quality, sedimentation, and environmental impact studies, primarily focusing on aquatic ecosystems and regulatory guidelines.

commissioned, and all infrastructure (dams, dykes, powerhouses, etc.) were removed, and water levels were returned to historic levels. The following is a list of the hydro-systems that were evaluated: • The Avon River hydro-system; • The B...

AI summary The document discusses the decommissioning of various hydro-systems in Nova Scotia, including the Avon River, Bear River, Black River, and others, and the potential environmental impacts on wetlands due to changes in water management regimes.

4/7) t. 902.863.1465 (24/7) t. 1.855.770.5560 (24/7) t. 1.855.770.5560 (24/7) f. 902.835.5574 f. 902.863.1389 f. 902.835.5574 f. 902.835.5574 www.strum.com [email protected] REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Hydro Asset Study Append...

AI summary This document discusses the potential costs associated with permitting wetland alterations due to the decommissioning of hydro-systems in Nova Scotia. It highlights the environmental regulations in place, such as the Environment Act and Wetland Conservation Policy, which require compensation for wetland habitat loss.

ly that significant wetland area would be able to re-establish itself once water levels are drawn down. The mid- range wetland degradation multiplier is 65% of the original wetland area. • High-Range Degradation Area Estimate – High-range...

AI summary The document discusses the potential wetland degradation caused by the decommissioning of a hydro-system, including mid-range and high-range estimates based on scenarios such as water level drawdown and hydrological changes.

kebed is rocky and devoid of rich organic material that would form the basis of suitable wetland soils. The mid- range wetland degradation multiplier is 85% of the original wetland area. Wetland Area Creation and Compensation Cost Analysis...

AI summary The document discusses the costs and challenges associated with creating and compensating for wetland habitat in Nova Scotia, particularly in the context of decommissioning hydro-systems. It highlights the need for individualized compensation scenarios and the potential for strategic water management to reduce compensation requirements.

enhance the wetland habitat on these waterbodies, which may reduce the compensation requirement for the hydro-system, or even act as a compensation project through the enhancement of wetland habitat. The cost of the compensation costs anal...

AI summary The document outlines the costs associated with wetland alteration permitting and compensation analysis for decommissioning hydro-systems. Costs vary based on the size of the hydro-system, with small, medium, and large systems having different permitting and compensation analysis costs.

$4,500.00 for small hydro-systems to $10,500.00 for large hydro-systems. The total cost to study all 16 hydro-systems and prepare reports with compensation options would be approximately $114,000.00. Discussion and Recommendations It shoul...

AI summary The report outlines the costs for studying 16 hydro-systems in Nova Scotia, estimating $114,000 for assessments and compensation options. It notes that environmental assessments may be required for decommissioning projects due to wetland disruption, and recommends consulting with NS Environment. The report acknowledges potential inaccuracies in wetland area and cost estimates.

Wetland within 50 m of lake

AI summary The text references a wetland located within 50 meters of a lake, indicating a geographical feature relevant to environmental considerations.

Wetland within 50 m of lake

AI summary The text refers to a wetland located within 50 meters of a lake, likely indicating a geographical or environmental feature under consideration in the regulatory proceeding.

Wetland within 50 m of lake

AI summary The text references a wetland located within 50 meters of a lake, indicating a geographical feature relevant to environmental considerations.

Wetland within 50 m of lake

AI summary The text refers to a wetland located within 50 meters of a lake, likely in the context of environmental or regulatory considerations.

4 5 Legend: 1 Harmony Hydro System 7 8 9 6 Wetland within 50 m of lake 10 11 12 13 Wetland within 10 m of river 14 15 16 17 NSDNR Wetland Inventory 20 Bog 18 19 22 Bog or Fen 21 Fen 23 Little Tupper Marsh Lake 0

AI summary The text includes a legend and map details related to the Harmony Hydro System, indicating the presence of wetlands, bogs, fens, and marshes near Little Tupper Lake. It highlights environmental features and their proximity to water bodies.

rn Salt Marsh Kilometres Ponhook Swamp Lake Water Transportation Road Network Water Features Mapped Stream Mapped Indefinite Stream Mapped Lakes and Rivers

AI summary The text includes a map with features such as salt marshes, lakes, rivers, and road networks, indicating geographical and environmental data relevant to the area.

NSTD, GeoNOVA, Geogratis. 2. Projection: NAD83 UTM Zone 20N 2 Legend: 3 Wreck Cove Hydro System 4 5 Wetland within 50 m 6 of lake 7 Wetland within 10 m 8 9 of river NSDNR Wetland Inventory 10 11 Bog Bog or Fen 12 Fen

AI summary The text lists entities involved in a regulatory proceeding and includes a map legend related to a hydro system and wetland classifications. It references geographic and environmental data, including wetlands near lakes and rivers.

Wreck Cove Reservoir 83.07 Total $ 114,000.00 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) Hydro Asset Study Appendix E Page 163 of 163 Strum Consulting – Professional Qualifications and Experience – Wetland Services Strum Consulting (Strum...

AI summary Strum Consulting provides environmental services related to wetland assessment, permitting, and compensation in Atlantic Canada. They have over 8 years of experience and are qualified with trained professionals and GIS software expertise.

57 REDACTED (CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION REMOVED) REDACTED Hydro Asset Study Appendix F Page 61 of 146 NSPI – Hydro Asset Costing Document impacts. This work has recovered significant archaeological resources. This area was previously assesse...

AI summary The text discusses archaeological assessments conducted by Boreas Heritage in 2015 and 2016 near NSPI assets along the lower Mersey River, including the identification of precontact sites. It outlines the potential need for further archaeological work if previous studies are deemed insufficient.

& Distribution Advanced Stage Interconnection Queue as of June 4th, 16 2019 ............................................................................................................................................................ 28 17...

AI summary The text lists figures related to energy generation projects, greenhouse gas emissions compliance, load and capacity analysis, and interconnection queues. Key themes include emissions caps, resource planning, and transmission infrastructure.

Page 35 of 67 2019 Ten-Year System Outlook NON-CONFIDENTIAL 1 As the Port Hawkesbury Biomass facility and the combustion turbine sites do not meet 2 the emissions threshold, fuel consumed on those sites will be subject to fuel surcharges 3...

AI summary The 2019 Ten-Year System Outlook discusses fuel surcharges under Cap and Trade Regulations for facilities that do not meet emissions thresholds. Nova Scotia Air Quality Regulations have been amended to set multi-year emission caps for SO2, NOX, and mercury, with further proposed amendments for a three-year SO2 cap from 2020 to 2022.

1 Figure 21: Mercury Emissions Caps Hg Emission Year Cap (kg) 2010 110 2011 100 2013 85 2014 65 2020 35 2030 30 2 3 By 2030, emissions of sulphur dioxide from generating electricity will have been reduced 4 by 80 percent from 2005 levels....

AI summary The text outlines mercury, sulfur dioxide (SO2), and nitrogen oxides (NOX) emission reduction targets by 2030, with specific measures such as reduced thermal generation, fuel blend changes, and the use of Powder Activated Carbon systems. NS Power participates in a mercury recovery program and has collected mercury credits through Efficiency One.

Power, through its contracted service provider, Efficiency One, has collected mercury 20 credits of 2.3 kg in 2015, 19.2 kg in 2016, and 44.8 kg in 2017. Efficiency One collected 22 Air Quality Regulations made under Sections 25 and 112 of...

AI summary The document mentions the collection of mercury credits by Efficiency One on behalf of Power in 2015, 2016, and 2017, and references the Air Quality Regulations under the Environment Act of Nova Scotia.

1 58.1 kg of credit in 2018; NS Power is awaiting confirmation and acceptance of the 2018 2 annual report by Nova Scotia Environment (NSE). A limited amount of credits approved 3 by NSE (30 kg in 2020, 10 kg per year for subsequent years)...

AI summary NS Power is awaiting confirmation of its 2018 annual report by Nova Scotia Environment (NSE) for mercury emissions credits. A limited number of credits can be used for compliance from 2020 to 2029. The province is working on a new equivalency agreement with the federal government to transition from fossil fuels to clean energy while allowing some coal-fired plants to operate beyond 2030.

September 2019. The minimization energy. exercise should be on cost to rate payers, not revenue requirement. AREA Constraints / Given that it has been shown that NSPI NS Power’s IRP will assess the least-cost Assumptions is no longer the l...

AI summary The text emphasizes minimizing energy costs for rate payers over revenue requirements, highlights NSPI's Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) assessing least-cost options for clean energy, and notes the absence of time for debate on asset ownership. It also mentions EAC scenarios advocating for a coal phase-out by 2030.

IRP Terms of Reference Consultation Appendix D Page 3 of 4 MEMORANDUM Scenarios Recommendation 12. The ToR should describe the process by which NS Power will engage with stakeholders to develop Candidate Resource Plans, and how NS Power wi...

AI summary This text discusses recommendations for the Terms of Reference (TOR) for the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), including stakeholder engagement in scenario development, consideration of the Sustainable Development Goals Act (SDGA), the Atlantic Clean Energy Initiative, the Clean Power Roadmap, and the inclusion of carbon costs in modelling. It also raises questions about stochastic analysis and carbon credit revenues.

Thank you for your letter, entitled ‘M08929 - Integrated Resource Planning’ dated December 19, 2019. Having reviewed the Draft Terms of Reference’ (“ToR”) in respect of the Integrated Resource Plan (“IRP”), and the related stakeholder comm...

AI summary The response to NS Power's Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) ToR supports alignment with SDGA goals, flexibility in strategy development, and long-term affordability. It criticizes the current IRP decision criterion for not prioritizing greenhouse gas emissions reduction and urges explicit stakeholder review timelines. The stakeholder supports examining coal unit replacement by 2030/2040 and earlier.

criteria against which potential plans and resource portfolios will evaluated under each scenario, as shown in Table 6 below: Metric Description Minimization of the cumulative present value of 25 year NPV Revenue Requirement the annual rev...

AI summary The document outlines evaluation criteria for resource plans and portfolios under different scenarios, including metrics such as revenue requirement NPV, reliability requirements, grid services provision, plan robustness, GHG emission reductions, and flexibility of future decisions.

1.8 Overview of Key Findings Nova Scotia Power evaluated a broad range of potential future scenarios that reflect key uncertainties over the coming decades. While each scenario has a unique optimal resource plan, Nova Scotia Power has iden...

AI summary Nova Scotia Power's analysis highlights the need for steep carbon emission reductions aligned with the SDGA, emphasizing the electricity sector's role. Electrification of heating and transportation reduces GHG emissions, with heat pumps offering 35% savings today and up to 95% by 2045 as the grid decarbonizes. The IRP models three electrification levels to ensure reliable, affordable service.

The Nova Scotia Air Quality Regulations 31 specify emission caps for sulphur dioxide ( $SO_2$ ), nitrogen oxide ( $NO_x$ ), and mercury (Hg) and have been amended to extend from 2020 to 2030. The amended regulations replace annual limits w...

AI summary The Nova Scotia Air Quality Regulations have been amended to extend emission caps for sulphur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen oxide (NOₓ), and mercury from 2020 to 2030, replacing annual limits with multi-year caps. In 2020, amendments introduced a three-year SO₂ cap from 2020 to 2022 and set local annual maximums and unit-specific limits for SO₂.

5.4 Evaluation of Resource Portfolios One of the main objectives of the IRP is to develop a robust, risk-weighted lowest-cost long-term electricity strategy that delivers energy in a safe and reliable manner. In addition, Nova Scotia Power...

AI summary Nova Scotia Power evaluates resource portfolios using metrics like 25-year NPVRR, resource adequacy, GHG emissions, and robustness to ensure affordability, reliability, and decarbonization. The Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) considers various scenarios, including the impact of DSM, DER penetration, and electrification on costs and rates.

ls under existing policy (prior to SDGA), such as Nova Scotia’s hard caps on electricity sector GHGs. The “Mitigation” scenarios demonstrate the incremental effort required to achieve the 80% target. Figure 2 presents Nova Scotia emissions...

AI summary The text discusses Nova Scotia's GHG emissions under existing policy, focusing on the need for mitigation scenarios to achieve an 80% emissions reduction target. E3's analysis highlights electricity generation, buildings, and transportation as key sectors, using PATHWAYS modeling to explore decarbonization pathways. Figure 2 illustrates 2016 emissions by sector, with electricity generation being a major contributor.

5 P a g e © 2020 Energy and Environmental Economics, Inc. Nova Scotia Power IRP Final Report Appendix A Page 11 of 64 (business-as-usual) scenario and three core “mitigation” scenarios (Building Electrification Only, Moderate Electrificati...

AI summary E3's PATHWAYS model analysis for Nova Scotia Power's Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) outlines scenarios for deep decarbonization, emphasizing sectoral synergy and low-carbon electricity's role. Key findings include the need for cross-sectoral efforts and electrification to achieve 80% GHG reductions by 2050.

n the electricity sector, as well as by enabling complementary reductions in buildings and transportation from electrification. Over the last decade, the electricity sector in Nova Scotia has reduced emissions by more than 30% relative to...

AI summary Nova Scotia's electricity sector reduced emissions by 30% since 2005 through renewable energy adoption. Continued integration of low-carbon resources like wind and hydro is needed to maintain this progress while ensuring reliability and affordability. NSPI must meet growing energy demand without increasing carbon emissions.

Nova Scotia Power IRP Final Report Appendix A Page 13 of 64 Figure 5. Nova Scotia GHG Emissions Reductions Milestones in High Electrification Scenario 3. Low-carbon electricity alone is not enough to achieve 80% economy-wide reductions. Al...

AI summary The text emphasizes that achieving 80% economy-wide GHG reductions requires measures beyond low-carbon electricity, such as advanced biofuels or hydrogen. Nova Scotia must monitor emerging energy sectors and assess their deployment potential to meet 2050 GHG goals.

Nova Scotia Power IRP Final Report Appendix A Page 14 of 64 Figure 6. Emissions Reduction by Strategy for the High Electrification Scenario 4. Long lifetimes require early action. Investments in infrastructure and equipment can last decade...

AI summary The text emphasizes the need for early action in infrastructure investments to meet 2050 emissions goals, highlighting the long-term impacts of electrification and low-carbon infrastructure. It notes the challenge of achieving near-complete passenger vehicle electrification by 2050, given current low EV adoption, and stresses the importance of public charging infrastructure and strategic planning by NSPI.

d Environmental Economics, Inc. Nova Scotia Power IRP Final Report Appendix A Page 16 of 64 1 Background 1.1 Nova Scotia Policy Landscape Climate change threatens human health and livelihoods around the globe, including risks to Nova Scoti...

AI summary Nova Scotia's Sustainable Development Goals Act (SDGA) sets ambitious GHG reduction targets (53% by 2030, net zero by 2050), superseding prior legislation. The text highlights that electricity/heat production accounted for over 40% of 2016 emissions, with NS Power's non-emitting sources projected to reach 60% by 2020. A pre-SDGA study evaluates pathways for 80% GHG reduction by 2050, termed 'deep decarbonization'.

roximately 60% of the Company’s electricity supply portfolio. The next largest source of emissions is on-road transportation, which makes up almost a quarter of emissions in Nova Scotia as of 2016. 11 P a g e © 2020 Energy and Environmenta...

AI summary The text outlines Nova Scotia's GHG emissions sources, highlighting electricity supply (60%) and on-road transportation (25%) as major contributors. It introduces a study on decarbonization pathways, focusing on electricity sector reductions and electrification impacts, using the PATHWAYS model framework for analysis.

17 P a g e © 2020 Energy and Environmental Economics, Inc. Nova Scotia Power IRP Final Report Appendix A Page 23 of 64 Two additional “bookend” scenarios –one focusing on more extreme reliance on biofuels and the other focusing on more ext...

AI summary The document outlines two extreme scenarios in Nova Scotia Power's Integrated Resource Plan (IRP): heavy reliance on biofuels and extreme electrification. Key assumptions from these scenarios are detailed in Table 1, developed by E3 using public data, distinct from NSPI's assumptions. Figure 10 illustrates historical GHG emissions and 2050 targets.

Reference High Electrification Building Electrification Moderate Electrification Only 2050 GHG 3.5 MMT CO2e 2.0 MMT CO2e 1.5 MMT CO2e 1.65 MMT CO2e emissions budget for electricity generation Building energy None 54% of homes are assumed t...

AI summary The text presents four electrification scenarios (High, Building, Moderate, Only) with varying GHG emission reductions (1.5–3.5 MMT CO2e by 2050), building efficiency measures, heat pump adoption rates, and zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) targets. Each scenario outlines differing levels of residential and commercial electrification, weatherization, and ZEV penetration.

1.0C L O W E L E C . / B A S E D S M / C O M PA R AT O R E M I S S I O N S / R E G I O N A L I N T E G R AT I O N Scenario Metrics & Evaluation 25-yr NPVRR ($MM) $12,032 General Notes • Incremental firm imports enable an economic coal unit...

AI summary The document presents scenario metrics and evaluation for a 25-year Net Present Value Rate of Return (NPVRR) of $12,032 million, with considerations for coal unit retirements, reliability tie implementation in 2030, and regional interconnection construction in 2039. It highlights CO2 emissions reductions and mentions non-compliance with Sustainable Development Goals Act.

Resource Adequacy & PRM 10-yr NPVRR ($MM) $6,776 • Reliability Tie: 2030 • Regional Integration: 2037 Plan Robustness & Flexibility Average Annual Relative Rate Impact • Regional Integration provides flexible ability to meet emissions cons...

AI summary The document discusses the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) from Nova Scotia Power, focusing on resource adequacy, Plan Robustness & Flexibility, and CO2 emissions projections from 2021 to 2045. It highlights the reliability tie in 2030 and regional integration in 2037, as well as the average annual relative rate impact and total CO2 emissions.

28 Nova Scotia Power IRP Final Report Appendix E Page 30 of 72 3.2B HIGH ELEC. / MAX DSM / ACCEL. NET ZERO 2045 / DISTRIBUTED RESOURCES 29 Nova Scotia Power IRP Final Report Appendix E Page 31 of 72 3.2B HIGH ELEC. / MAX DSM / ACCEL. NET Z...

AI summary This section presents the financial and environmental metrics for the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) under the HIGH ELEC. / MAX DSM / ACCEL. NET ZERO 2045 / DISTRIBUTED RESOURCES scenario. It includes Net Present Value of Resource Recovery (NPVRR), carbon emissions, and reliability considerations such as the Reliability Tie and Regional Integration.

and wind builds are delayed in line with later coal unit retirement date 10-yr NPVRR ($MM) $6,887 $7,022 but final resource plan is essentially unchanged from 2.1C Essential Grid Services • No significant change from 2.1C Average Annual Re...

AI summary The Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) shows minimal changes in resource planning despite delays in wind builds and coal unit retirements. CO2 emissions are slightly reduced over the 2021-2045 period, and average annual rate impacts remain stable. The plan includes Essential Grid Services, Resource Adequacy, and PRM timelines, with no significant changes from the 2.1C version.

38 34 34 28 26 26 26 26 19 20 20 20 20 15 15 15 15 15 0 0 0 0 0 0 2.1B Emission Year 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034 2035 2036 2037 2038 2039 2040 2041 2042 2043 2044 2045 CO2 (k tonnes) 4,666 4,002 3,...

AI summary The text presents a table showing CO2, mercury, nitrogen oxides, and sulfur dioxide emissions from 2021 to 2045, with decreasing values over time, indicating potential emission reduction efforts.

1 31 30 30 24 24 23 22 22 20 20 20 20 20 14 13 15 15 15 0 0 0 0 0 0 2.1C Emission Year 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034 2035 2036 2037 2038 2039 2040 2041 2042 2043 2044 2045 CO2 (k tonnes) 5,031 4,189...

AI summary The document presents a table showing projected emissions of CO2, mercury, nitrogen oxides (NOx), and sulfur dioxide (SO2) from 2021 to 2045. The data indicates a gradual decline in emissions over time, with significant reductions expected by 2030 and beyond.

Nova Scotia Power IRP Final Report Appendix F Page 3 of 25 2.2C Emission Year 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034 2035 2036 2037 2038 2039 2040 2041 2042 2043 2044 2045 CO2 (k tonnes) 5,039 4,246 4,213 4,2...

AI summary The table presents projected emissions of CO2, mercury, nitrogen oxides, and sulfur dioxide from 2021 to 2045 as outlined in the Nova Scotia Power Integrated Resource Plan Final Report. Emissions are expected to decrease over time, with significant reductions in CO2 and other pollutants by 2045.

35 33 34 27 26 26 26 26 20 18 16 16 13 13 14 14 15 15 0 0 0 0 0 0 2.0C.DSM-5 (Mid DSM) Emission Year 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034 2035 2036 2037 2038 2039 2040 2041 2042 2043 2044 2045 CO2 (k tonnes...

AI summary The table presents emissions data for CO2, mercury, NOx, and SO2 from 2021 to 2045, showing a decreasing trend in emissions over time, with significant reductions in CO2 emissions starting from 2030 onwards.

35 23 14 12 15 15 15 15 14 14 14 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 0 0 0 0 0 0 2.1C.WIND-3 (Low Inertia Constraint) Emission Year 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034 2035 2036 2037 2038 2039 2040 2041 2042 2043 2044 20...

AI summary The text presents emission data for CO2, Mercury, NOx, and SO2 across multiple years from 2021 to 2045, illustrating a gradual decline in emissions over time, particularly for CO2 and NOx, with some fluctuations noted in specific years.

4 31 29 27 23 26 19 20 19 18 15 15 14 15 11 11 15 15 15 0 0 0 0 0 0 2.1C.Mersey Emission Year 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034 2035 2036 2037 2038 2039 2040 2041 2042 2043 2044 2045 CO2 (k tonnes) 5,006...

AI summary The text presents emission data for Mersey over the years 2021 to 2045, detailing CO2, Hg, NOx, and SO2 emissions in various units. The data shows a general trend of decreasing emissions over time, particularly for CO2, Hg, NOx, and SO2.

35 34 34 28 26 26 26 26 19 19 19 19 19 15 15 15 15 15 0 0 0 0 0 0 2.1C.Import-1 (Limited Non-Firm) Emission Year 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034 2035 2036 2037 2038 2039 2040 2041 2042 2043 2044 2045 C...

AI summary The document presents emission data for various pollutants (CO2, Hg, NOx, SO2) across multiple years, showing a gradual decline in emissions from 2021 to 2045. This data may be used for regulatory analysis, compliance, and policy-making related to environmental goals and climate change reduction.

39 34 34 25 26 26 26 26 17 17 18 18 18 15 15 15 15 15 0 0 0 0 0 0 2.0A.Import-2 (No Reliability Tie) Emission Year 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034 2035 2036 2037 2038 2039 2040 2041 2042 2043 2044 2045...

AI summary The text presents emission data for various pollutants (CO2, Hg, NOx, SO2) over the years 2021 to 2045, showing a general decline in emissions over time, particularly for CO2, Hg, NOx, and SO2, with some fluctuations in specific years.

Nova Scotia Power IRP Final Report Appendix F Page 6 of 25 2.1C.CAPEX-1 (High Sustaining CapEx) Emission Year 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034 2035 2036 2037 2038 2039 2040 2041 2042 2043 2044 2045 CO2...

AI summary The table presents Nova Scotia Power's projected emissions for CO2, mercury, NOx, and SO2 from 2021 to 2045 under the High Sustaining CapEx scenario. Emissions decrease over time, with significant reductions in CO2 by 2040 and complete elimination of mercury, NOx, and SO2 emissions by 2041.

2020 IRP ASSUMPTIONS SET 20 Nova Scotia Power IRP Final Report Appendix H Page 40 of 321 AIR QUALITY REGULATIONS Emissions Multi-Year Caps (SO2, NOx) • Provincial regulations that Multi-Year Caps stipulate NS Power emission SO2 (t) NOX (t)...

AI summary The document outlines provincial air quality regulations that set multi-year emission caps for Sulphur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and mercury (Hg) from 2010 to 2030. It also includes requirements for a mercury diversion program and the use of credits for compliance from 2020 to 2030.

electrical and heat demands for these facilities, based on Lockheed Martin study [12], are presented in Figure 6. Most of these facilities use Fuel oil for heating purposes but Arena uses Electric Digby Submissions February 14, 2020 Page 2...

AI summary The document outlines electrical and heat demands for high-demand facilities in the Municipality of the District of Digby, referencing a Lockheed Martin study. It highlights that most facilities use fuel oil for heating, with the Arena using electricity. Figures 6, 7, and 8 provide data on average yearly demand, oil consumption, and GHG emissions, noting that hospitals and two schools emit over 750 tonnes CO2e annually.

r power in Nova Scotia, with the addition of about 480 MW  Building a second transmission link to New Brunswick, and importing about 200MW of existing hydroelectricity capacity from Quebec. Although this report is not primarily an economi...

AI summary The report outlines a low-carbon pathway for Nova Scotia Power, including measures such as adding 480 MW of renewable power, building a transmission link to New Brunswick, and importing 200 MW of hydroelectricity from Quebec. It estimates a net annual cost of $200 million, which is about half of one percent of Nova Scotia's economic output. The measures are expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by over 69% below 2005 levels by 2030.

ar NPV Revenue Requirement annual revenue requirements over the planning horizon (adjusted for end-effects) Magnitude and timing of electricity rate effects 10 year NPV Revenue Requirement Reliability requirements for supply adequacy Evalu...

AI summary This document outlines the 2020 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) interim modeling progress and includes participant comments and responses from Nova Scotia Power. It discusses reliability requirements, plan robustness, greenhouse gas reduction, and flexibility in decision-making.

tel. 902.429.2202 2705 Fern Lane, fax. 902.405.3716 Halifax, NS, B3K 4L3 The Roadmap for our Future We are not continuing the long-term planning process from 2007 and 2017. There are many external influences that are occurring right now in...

AI summary The document outlines a new integrated resource plan (IRP) for Nova Scotia, emphasizing the need to address greenhouse gas (GHG) emission targets and external factors like the pandemic. It recommends modeling scenarios for zero GHG emissions and suggests an extended timeline for stakeholder consultation.

ces and optimistic emissions factors for natural gas create conditions where building natural gas fired systems is the most cost effective response to declining GHG levels. The concern is that when ecologyaction.ca EAC Memo July 17, 2020 P...

AI summary The text discusses concerns that using optimistic emissions factors for natural gas may lead to building natural gas-fired systems being the most cost-effective response to declining GHG levels. It highlights the potential for significant costs when emission limits reach absolute zero and emphasizes the need for the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) to assess import options and model scenarios for zero GHG conditions.

ELCC analysis)? • If the costs of offshore wind come down considerably over the study period, are there planning decisions (such as transmission investments or conventional capacity additions) included in this IRP that would be rendered un...

AI summary The text raises questions about the sensitivity of offshore wind costs and their impact on transmission investments and conventional capacity additions in the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP). It also requests stakeholder input on metrics used for evaluating portfolios, including revenue requirement minimization and GHG production metrics.

al revenue requirements 25 year NPV Revenue Requirement over the planning horizon (with and without end-effects adjustment) Average Annual Partial Rate Impact - 25-yr Magnitude and timing of electricity rate effects 10 year NPV Revenue Req...

AI summary The text discusses various aspects of electricity planning and regulation, including revenue requirements, reliability and grid stability, plan robustness, greenhouse gas emissions reductions, and flexibility in decision-making. Key topics include the evaluation of resource capacity, essential grid services, and the impact of assumptions on plan outcomes.

85 of 264 2.1C M I D E L E C . / B A S E D S M / N E T Z E R O 2 0 5 0 / R E G I O N A L I N T E G R AT I O N Scenario Metrics & Evaluation 25-yr NPVRR ($MM) $13,141 General Notes • Reliability Tie built in 2031 (earlier than previous runs...

AI summary The document presents scenario metrics and evaluation data for a 25-year and 10-year Net Present Value of Resource Requirement (NPVRR) under various conditions, including the construction of a Reliability Tie in 2031, retirement of a coal unit in the 2020s, and reduced combined cycle units by 2040. It also highlights CO2 emissions and the integration of renewable resources in the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP).

d Effects ($MM) $16,692 Essential Grid Services • Essential Grid Service requirements are met as modeled 10-yr NPVRR ($MM) $6,850 Resource Adequacy & PRM • Reliability Tie: 2035 • Regional Integration: n/a Average Annual Partial Rate Impac...

AI summary The document presents scenario metrics and evaluation related to the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) of Nova Scotia Power. It highlights essential grid services, resource adequacy, CO2 emissions, and the impact of natural gas prices on the plan's robustness and compliance with sustainability goals.

9 Nova Scotia Power IRP Final Report Appendix K Page 118 of 264 2.0A LOW ELEC. / BASE DSM / NET ZERO 2050 / CURRENT LANDSCAPE 10 Nova Scotia Power IRP Final Report Appendix K Page 119 of 264 2.0A LOW ELEC. / BASE DSM / NET ZERO 2050 / CURR...

AI summary The document presents scenario metrics and evaluations from Nova Scotia Power's Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) Final Report. It includes 25-year and 10-year Net Present Value of Resource Requirements (NPVRR), reliability tie construction in 2030, CO2 emissions projections, and considerations related to resource adequacy, plan robustness, and flexibility.

15 Nova Scotia Power IRP Final Report Appendix K Page 124 of 264 2.1B MID ELEC. / BASE DSM / NET ZERO 2050 / DISTRIBUTED RESOURCES 16 Nova Scotia Power IRP Final Report Appendix K Page 125 of 264 2.1B MID ELEC. / BASE DSM / NET ZERO 2050 /...

AI summary The document presents scenario metrics and evaluation from Nova Scotia Power's Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) Final Report. It outlines 25-yr and 10-yr Net Present Value of Resource Requirements (NPVRR), CO2 emissions, and reliability tie and regional integration timelines. The report also notes that DER is modeled as a load reduction, with cost not included in NPV calculations.

127 of 264 2.1C M I D E L E C . / B A S E D S M / N E T Z E R O 2 0 5 0 / R E G I O N A L I N T E G R AT I O N Scenario Metrics & Evaluation 25-yr NPVRR ($MM) $13,141 General Notes • Reliability Tie built in 2031 (earlier than previous run...

AI summary The document presents scenario metrics and evaluation data from Nova Scotia Power's Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) Final Report. It includes 25-yr and 10-yr Net Present Value of Resource Requirements (NPVRR), CO2 emissions, and reliability tie timelines. The report highlights the impact of retiring coal units, wind integration, and regional integration on emissions and resource adequacy.

24 Nova Scotia Power IRP Final Report Appendix K Page 133 of 264 3.1B MID ELEC. / BASE DSM / ACCEL. NET ZERO 2045 / DISTRIBUTED RESOUR CES Scenario Metrics & Evaluation 25-yr NPVRR ($MM) $12,698 General Notes • DER is modeled as a load red...

AI summary The document presents scenario metrics and evaluations from Nova Scotia Power's Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) Final Report, focusing on Distributed Energy Resources (DER), Mid-Electricity, Base Demand Side Management (DSM), and accelerated Net Zero 2045 goals. It includes 25-year and 10-year Net Present Value of Resource Requirements (NPVRR), CO2 emissions, and grid reliability considerations.

27 Nova Scotia Power IRP Final Report Appendix K Page 136 of 264 3.2B HIGH ELEC. / MAX DSM / ACCEL. NET ZERO 2045 / DISTRIBUTED RESOUR CES 28 Nova Scotia Power IRP Final Report Appendix K Page 137 of 264 3.2B HIGH ELEC. / MAX DSM / ACCEL....

AI summary The document presents scenario metrics and evaluation for Nova Scotia Power's Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) under a high electricity demand, maximum demand-side management (DSM), and accelerated Net Zero 2045 scenario. Key figures include a 25-year NPVRR of $15,045 million, CO2 emissions reductions, and reliability tie and regional integration plans.

Integration provides flexible ability to meet emissions constraints Total CO2 Emissions 2021-2030 (MT) 33.8 Total CO2 Emissions 2031-2045 (MT) 10.2 Total CO2 Emissions 2021-2045 (MT) 44.0 29 Nova Scotia Power IRP Final Report Appendix K Pa...

AI summary The text discusses the integration of energy systems to meet emissions constraints, highlighting total CO2 emissions from 2021 to 2045. It references the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) and mentions the Net Zero by 2045 goal, as well as regional integration strategies.

3.2C H I G H E L E C . / M A X D S M / A C C E L . N E T Z E R O 2 0 4 5 / R E G I O N A L I N T E G R AT I O N Scenario Metrics & Evaluation 25-yr NPVRR ($MM) $16,049 General Notes • Gas CT builds and incremental firm imports support earl...

AI summary This section presents scenario metrics and evaluation results from the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) of Nova Scotia Power, including Net Present Value of Resource Requirements (NPVRR), CO2 emissions, and reliability tie timelines. It highlights the impact of gas generation and firm imports on load growth and emissions reduction targets.

Adequacy & PRM 2021-2030 (%) 1.2% 0.6% • Reliability Tie: 2030 2021-2045 (%) 0.8% 0.7% • Regional Integration: 2031 Plan Robustness & Flexibility Total CO2 Emissions 2021-2030 (MT) 39.9 41.8 • No change relative to 2.1C Base Total CO2 Emis...

AI summary The document discusses the adequacy and Peak Resource Management (PRM) metrics for Nova Scotia Power's Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) from 2021 to 2045, including Loss of Load Probability (LOLP) and CO2 emissions. It also outlines the New Installed Capacity Comparison for 2045 and Scenario Metrics & Evaluation under the MID DSM scenario.

$7,871 $8,201 to the change in DSM level • NPVRR is decreased relative to 2.2C Max DSM case for all three time periods Essential Grid Services Average Annual Partial Rate Impact • No significant change from 2.2C 2021-2030 (%) 0.8% 1.3% 202...

AI summary The text discusses changes in DSM levels and their impact on NPVRR, as well as CO2 emissions across different time periods. It also references reliability tie and regional integration plans, and compares new installed capacity in 2045 under a low DSM scenario.

e time periods 10-yr NPVRR ($MM) $7,164 $6,820 Essential Grid Services • No change relative to 2.0C Resource Adequacy & PRM Average Annual Partial Rate Impact • Reliability Tie: 2030 2021-2030 (%) 1.4% 0.9% • Regional Integration: 2039 202...

AI summary The document presents financial and environmental metrics related to Nova Scotia Power's Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), including 10-year Net Present Value of Resource Requirements (NPVRR), CO2 emissions projections, and installed capacity comparisons under different scenarios such as 2.0C.DSM-6 and Net Zero 2050.

ions associated with upstream fugitive methane emissions. While not currently accounted for under this IRP process, there is a clear risk that at some point in time they will be included as regulators seek to achieve real emission reductio...

AI summary The text discusses the potential inclusion of upstream fugitive methane emissions in the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) process, highlighting the environmental impact of natural gas compared to coal. It also emphasizes the benefits of an accelerated coal phase-out, including job creation and health benefits, while noting the initial higher costs associated with this approach.

ould be economic in the future, as suggested; however, further analysis would be required (e.g. reliability, self sufficiency, policy certainty, etc.). Natural Gas EAC The North American natural gas supply has additional emissions associat...

AI summary The document discusses the environmental impact of natural gas, particularly fugitive methane emissions, and notes that NS Power does not currently account for these emissions in its IRP process. If regulations change, planned natural gas units may be re-evaluated, and NS Power is considering low and zero carbon alternatives.

sustainability as core principles. Action Plan and Roadmap. In addition to these stakeholder engagement sessions, NS Power held individual meetings with stakeholders and consultants on a number of occasions. All IRP information and documen...

AI summary NS Power's Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) includes commitments to full coal retirement and net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals Act. The IRP process involved stakeholder engagement and public access to information via the IRP website.

Nova Scotia Deep potential electrification as a means to decarbonising Decarbonization report. Further, NS Power plans to transport and heat (as is being experienced on other develop and propose pilots and/or programs that focus countries)...

AI summary The document discusses Nova Scotia Power's plans to focus on electrification of transport and heat as a means to decarbonization, referencing a report that highlights the importance of wind capacity build-out. It emphasizes the need for a clear plan with target dates and stakeholder engagement, while noting that the pace of electrification will depend on technological development and government initiatives.

SBA No comment n/a Town of No specific comment on Finding but provides comments on 2020-09-21; p.3/4, 4/4 Wolfville the Town’s emissions reduction scenarios relative to Nova 2020-11-13; p.2/2 Scotia Power’s IRP. States that it expects Nova...

AI summary The Town of Wolfville provides comments on Nova Scotia Power’s Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), expressing expectations that it will be vetted for compliance with environmental law. The Town continues to develop its community emissions reduction plan, assuming Nova Scotia Power’s commitment to provincial decarbonization is central to the 2020 IRP.

ially treats all modeling runs as scenarios (different scenarios result in different resource build results) even when NSPI’s naming convention calls it a “sensitivity.” 1 IRP report, pages 78-81. 2 The PLEXOS modeling platform is used fir...

AI summary NSPI's Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) uses scenario-based modeling with PLEXOS, distinguishing long-term, medium-term, and short-term models. However, it excludes SDGA's marginal emission reduction impacts and does not test stricter emission trajectories, potentially leading to sub-optimal capacity expansion decisions.

where carbon was valued at $50/ton.14 Table 3. Carbon Emissions under Different DSM Scenarios CO2, '000 tons Sum CO2 2021- 2045, '000 DSM Level / Scenario tons 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2035 2040 2045 Low / 2.0C Low...

AI summary The table presents carbon emissions under different DSM scenarios (Low, Base, Mid, Max) from 2021 to 2045, with carbon valued at $50/ton. It compares emissions across years and scenarios, highlighting the impact of varying DSM levels on CO2 reduction.

654 Max / 2.0 Max DSM 62,082 4,771 4,076 3,980 3,870 3,712 3,822 3,722 3,625 3,504 3,347 1,826 592 620 Delta CO2 ('000 tons), Scenario Deltas 2021-2045 CO2, '000 tonnes Low - Savings from Base (Base minus Low) -7,137 1 1 -46 -91 48 15 130...

AI summary The text presents a comparative analysis of demand-side management (DSM) scenarios (Low, Mid, Max) with metrics on CO2 emission deltas and NPV values. It highlights variations in CO2 savings and financial impacts across scenarios, showing Mid and Max scenarios yielding higher CO2 reductions and NPV credits compared to the Low scenario.

Resource Insight, Inc. was engaged by the Nova Scotia Consumer Advocate to provide expert review of Nova Scotia Power's 2020 Integrated Resource Plan.[1](#page-4-0) We reviewed all public materials related to the IRP, participated in stake...

AI summary Resource Insight, Inc. reviewed Nova Scotia Power's 2020 Integrated Resource Plan and found it to be credible, with multiple pathways for reducing carbon emissions. The Board is encouraged to collaborate on electrification programs and consider cost-effective greenhouse gas reduction strategies. Oversight processes like the ACE plan and FAM review help ensure efficient service and cost management.

A. Limitation on Conclusions that can be Drawn from the IRP Analysis The SBA has been supportive throughout the IRP process for a focus on recognizing that a resource plan must reflect the province's policies regarding decarbonization. Con...

AI summary The SBA cautions that the IRP analysis may underestimate costs and system investments needed for electrification, lacks rate design considerations, and assumes zero transmission/distribution costs. While acknowledging electrification's decarbonization benefits, the SBA stresses uncertainties in timing, cost allocation, and unaddressed infrastructure needs.

Responses and Recommendations Summarized Overarching Theme IRP Response Relevance Recommendations Stakeholder engagement Results in a subpar consultation process Work with key stakeholders (including neighbouring provinces) to co-develop a...

AI summary The document highlights concerns about stakeholder engagement in the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) process, noting a subpar consultation approach. It also criticizes the limited variables assessed in the IRP's economic models, suggesting that environmental and health costs were externalized. Recommendations include co-developing plans with stakeholders and revising the roadmap to prioritize renewables and storage over natural gas conversion.

tes (and corresponding earlier reductions in greenhouse gas emissions) resulted in higher cumulative NPV of revenue requirement and near term rate effects. RII recognized this in its comments as well: The pace of greenhouse gas emission re...

AI summary The text discusses the balance between reducing greenhouse gas emissions and electricity rates, NS Power's approach to affordability and coal retirements, and the role of electrification in decarbonization. RII emphasizes the need for least-cost emission reduction strategies and commends NS Power's inclusion of electrification in the IRP.

IRP Final Report Comments – Bates White No. Topic / Reference Bates White Comment NS Power Response Nova Scotia with the effect of reducing upward pressure on rates (see Figure 52) while simultaneously reducing economy-wide greenhouse gas...

AI summary Bates White comments on the IRP Final Report, highlighting how Nova Scotia's initiatives reduce upward pressure on rates and decrease greenhouse gas emissions as the economy and electricity system decarbonize.

llowed by comments submitted on January 20, 2021 by the Consumer Advocate's consultant Resource Insight Inc, Small Business Advocate, Heritage Gas, Counsel for Port Hawkesbury Paper LP, EfficiencyOne, and Sierra Club Canada Foundation. NS...

AI summary The 2020 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) process faced increased complexity due to grid modernization, renewable energy integration, and decarbonization efforts. Stakeholder engagement was extensive and collaborative, with the Board and consultants acknowledging the process's transparency and the value of stakeholder input in shaping NS Power's resource planning.

Natural Forces states: We are discouraged to see that NS Power's primary decision criterion used for IRP modeling continues to be solely based on minimizing cumulative present value of the annual revenue requirements. We feel that reductio...

AI summary The text criticizes NS Power's use of minimizing annual revenue requirements as the primary criterion for IRP modeling, arguing that greenhouse gas emission reductions should be a primary consideration rather than a secondary one under the current Terms of Reference.

November 27, 2020 Via Email Ms. Crystal Henwood Regulatory Affairs Officer/Clerk Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board 1601 Lower Water Street, 3rd Floor Halifax, NS B3J 3S3 Dear Ms. Henwood, Re: Re: P-884 - M08929, 2020 Integrated Resource...

AI summary Nova Scotia Power submitted its 2020 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) to the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board, outlining a strategy to deliver clean, affordable electricity aligned with provincial decarbonization goals. The submission followed stakeholder engagement since 2019 and acknowledges collaboration with board staff, consultants, and customer representatives.