Topic:"Renewable Energy" in M10504

2030 Renewable Electricity Standard - The Province of Nova Scotia amended the Renewable Electricity Regulations on July 9, 2021 (N.S. Reg. 110/2021). The update was published in the Royal Gazette Part II on July 30, 2021. - The amendment a...

AI summary Nova Scotia amended its Renewable Electricity Regulations in 2021, mandating 80% renewable electricity by 2030. NS Power must secure 1,100 GWh from independent producers, with potential contributions from external renewable sources. A 350 MW procurement by CustomerFirst Renewables aims to achieve 70% renewable electricity, with the remaining 10% targeted by 2030.

Regional Integration Alternatives - In addition to discussions aimed at advancing the Atlantic Loop project, Nova Scotia Power continues to monitor other potential sources of imported firm capacity and energy, consistent with the Regional...

AI summary Nova Scotia Power (NSP) is monitoring potential energy imports from New England and other regions as part of its Regional Integration strategy. However, New England's energy mix may not meet Nova Scotia's 80% renewable standard, and capacity importability may decrease compared to 2020 IRP assumptions due to gas constraints and shifting peak demand patterns.

Electrification Strategy IRP Action Plan Item 2 is: Electrification is a key variable in this IRP and results indicate that under economic resource plans it can support provincial decarbonization while reducing upward pressure on electrici...

AI summary The Electrification Strategy, part of IRP Action Plan Item 2, emphasizes electrification's role in supporting provincial decarbonization while managing electricity rates. Nova Scotia Power focused on initiating the strategy in 2021, with the IRP highlighting that diverse low-carbon investments can enable deep decarbonization.

Electrification Strategy Part 2a of the Electrification Action Item is: Initiate an Electrification Strategy to develop options for encouraging beneficial electrification with the goals of maintaining rate stability while decarbonizing the...

AI summary The Electrification Strategy aims to develop options for beneficial electrification, incorporating industry best practices and focusing on transportation and building sectors. It seeks to maintain rate stability while decarbonizing Nova Scotia's economy in line with the Sustainable Development Goals Act, with oversight by UARB.

Electrification Strategy Approach - During 2021 NS Power has engaged Energy and Environmental Economics, Inc. (E3) to support the development of an Electrification Strategy for NS Power. - This work is ongoing and is focused on the transpo...

AI summary NS Power is developing an electrification strategy with E3, focusing on transportation and building sectors aligned with provincial/federal targets (e.g., 30% non-emitting vehicles by 2030). The strategy will include short-term priorities, evaluation metrics, and long-term load impact analysis, with stakeholder consultations planned for 2022.

Electrification Strategy Components - The approach to developing NS Power's Electrification Strategy has been divided into 5 tasks, each with corresponding deliverables: - Task 1: Objectives and Analysis Plan - Task 2: Jurisdictional Scan...

AI summary NS Power's Electrification Strategy is structured into five tasks: objectives and analysis, jurisdictional scan, revenue model and affordability calculator, beneficial electrification modeling, and a roadmap. Completion is anticipated by Q2 2022.

Electrification Strategy Jurisdictional Scan In order to ensure that current industry best practices are incorporated into NS Power's Electrification Strategy, E3 has completed a jurisdictional scan. Key findings include: - Nova Scotia's e...

AI summary E3's jurisdictional scan for NS Power's Electrification Strategy highlights alignment with Net-Zero targets, challenges in implementing building and transportation policies, and the role of utilities in promoting EV adoption and building electrification. Coordination with policymakers and ensuring stable rates are emphasized as key factors for successful electrification.

Electrification Strategy Pilots and Programs E3's jurisdictional scan has also identified utility programs and activities that are typically well supported by economics and/or stakeholders: - Rebate programs targeted at Light Duty Vehicles...

AI summary The document outlines electrification strategy pilots and programs, emphasizing rebate programs for Light Duty Vehicles (LDVs), charging infrastructure in underserved areas, public fast charging, EV-ready construction, all-electric new buildings, time-of-use rates, grid-interactive programs, workplace charging incentives, and EV education. These initiatives aim to address gaps in private market funding, reduce costs, and promote EV adoption.

Monitor Electrification Growth

AI summary The document outlines the need to monitor the growth of electrification initiatives, though no specific details or arguments are provided in the chunk.

Monitor Electrification Growth Key electrification parameters include space heating, hot water heating and EV sales. NS Power continues to see growth in sales/installations of electrified end uses. - Electric heating growth is mainly drive...

AI summary Nova Scotia Power (NSP) monitors electrification growth through parameters like heat pump installations, hot water heater adoption, and EV sales. Data is collected via distributor surveys, end-use studies, and collaboration with Statistics Canada, with heat pump load data expected by 2022.

C&I Electrification Growth (Cumulative GWh)

AI summary The document includes a figure (Figure 4) illustrating cumulative C&I electrification growth in GWh but does not provide specific data or analysis in the text. Further details are referenced in the visual content.

Updated Electric Vehicle and Heat Pump Forecasts - As part of the Electrification Strategy project, E3 has developed sales and stock rollover forecasts for EV LDVs, Residential Heat Pumps, and Commercial Heat Pumps. - These enhanced modeli...

AI summary E3 has developed enhanced forecasts for EV LDVs and heat pumps, incorporating provincial/federal targets and stock rollover models from NS Power's pre-IRP report. These forecasts will support NS Power's assessment of electrification impacts and inform future load forecasts.

Modeled Residential Heat Pump Sales Residential HP adoption/stock estimate was developed in E3's PATHWAYS stock rollover model, based on assumption of nearly 100% HP sales by 2030. - The stock of HP reaches nearly 64% by 2030 and 100% by 2...

AI summary E3's PATHWAYS model estimates residential heat pump (HP) adoption reaching 64% by 2030 and 100% by 2050 under scenario assumptions aligned with Nova Scotia's net zero targets. These projections are not economics-driven forecasts but reflect necessary decarbonization pathways.

Thermal Plant Retirement, Redevelopment, and Replacement Plan IRP Action Plan Item 3 is: Initiate a thermal plant retirement, redevelopment and replacement plan. This Action Plan item has 4 elements that are updated on the following slides...

AI summary The IRP Action Plan Item 3 focuses on retiring, redeveloping, and replacing thermal plants to meet the 80% Renewable Energy Standard by 2030 while ensuring reliability and affordability for customers.

Fast-Acting Generation Strategy Part 3c of the Thermal Plant Retirement item is: Develop a plan for the redevelopment or replacement of existing natural gas-powered steam turbines to provide low-cost, fast-acting generating capacity to the...

AI summary NS Power is developing a plan to replace natural gas-powered steam turbines with low-cost, fast-acting generation capacity, considering fuel flexibility and alternative fuels. The strategy evaluates Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and Combustion Turbines as potential solutions.

Combustion Turbine Update - The 2020 IRP found that significant Combustion Turbine (CT) additions were required, including under accelerated coal retirement and more stringent emissions reduction scenarios. - For example, Scenario 3.1C cum...

AI summary The 2020 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) identified a need for significant Combustion Turbine (CT) additions in Nova Scotia, especially under accelerated coal retirement and stricter emissions scenarios. NS Power is evaluating CT deployment options and locations, considering gas supply and transmission needs, while also exploring alternatives like BESS and coal-to-gas conversions to reduce CT requirements by 2030.

Wind Procurement Strategy Part 3d of the Thermal Plant Retirement item is: Initiate a wind procurement strategy, targeting 50-100 MW new installed capacity by 2025 and up to 350 MW by 2030. This strategy will solicit Nova Scotia-based mark...

AI summary The document outlines a wind procurement strategy targeting 50-100 MW by 2025 and up to 350 MW by 2030, informed by the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP). It emphasizes the need for system stability studies to assess grid impacts and potential requirements for ancillary services like Fast Frequency Response (FFR), especially in advance of the Reliability Tie commissioning.

Nova Scotia Rate Base Procurement - On July 9, 2021 the Province of Nova Scotia announced the 'Rate Base Procurement' program to acquire low-cost renewable generation to serve Nova Scotia Power customers. - Customer First Renewables (CFR)...

AI summary Nova Scotia's Rate Base Procurement program aims to acquire low-cost renewable energy for Nova Scotia Power customers. Customer First Renewables (CFR) administers the procurement, with the latest RFP draft targeting 1100 GWh of wind and solar energy by 2025. Nova Scotia Power is collaborating with CFR and conducting interconnection studies as part of the process.

Nova Scotia Power Wind - Nova Scotia Power continues to examine opportunities for wind development in Nova Scotia, including examining opportunities for federal and provincial funding (e.g. Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways Pro...

AI summary Nova Scotia Power is exploring wind development opportunities in Nova Scotia, including federal and provincial funding programs to reduce costs for customers. A project related to wind assets is included in ACE 2022 as part of the transition to 80% renewable electricity by 2030.

Wind Integration Studies In parallel with the wind procurement strategy for additional renewable resources, a series of studies are ongoing to determine what system or operational supports are required to enable the highest levels of wind...

AI summary The document discusses ongoing wind integration studies in Nova Scotia to determine system and operational supports needed for high wind integration. It references the 2020 Integrated Resource Plan, NERC guidelines, and past system events like the Texas Odessa and South Australia blackout for lessons learned. Replacing traditional synchronous generators with inverter-based resources is highlighted as a challenge requiring careful planning.

Scope of Work - A Consultant with global expertise in the study of high penetrations of Inverter Based Resources has been engaged to support the following scope of work: - Development of robust PSCADTM and PSSE simulation models for the sc...

AI summary A consultant with global expertise in high penetrations of Inverter Based Resources has been engaged to develop simulation models, conduct reliability studies, and create documentation for Nova Scotia Power's planning and operations.

Low Carbon Fuels Roadmap Item 4 states: Monitor the development of low/zero carbon fuels that could replace natural gas in powering generating units to provide firm, in-province capacity. NS Power's focus on this item has been largely in u...

AI summary The document discusses NS Power's focus on monitoring low/zero carbon fuels, particularly hydrogen, as part of the Integrated Resource Plan, with an emphasis on the potential of hydrogen to replace natural gas in generating units within Nova Scotia.

Atlantic Hydrogen Alliance - The Atlantic Hydrogen Alliance (AHA) has been created to support the development of an economically viable clean hydrogen value chain that will enable the transition to a prosperous low-carbon economy in Atlant...

AI summary The Atlantic Hydrogen Alliance (AHA) aims to develop a clean hydrogen value chain in Atlantic Canada. NS Power is a member and will participate in working groups, as well as explore hydrogen co-firing and dual fuel options for new combustion turbine resources.

Renewable and Storage Costs – Capital Costs - NS Power reviewed NREL's Annual Technology Baseline (ATB) forecasts for renewables (onshore wind, solar) and storage (4HR Li-ion) to gauge capital cost changes from the 2020 IRP (ATB 2019 vs AT...

AI summary NS Power reviewed NREL's Annual Technology Baseline (ATB) forecasts for renewable and storage technologies to assess capital cost changes since the 2020 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP). The analysis uses constant 2019 dollars and compares current estimates to those in the 2020 IRP, focusing on material differences.

Solar - ATB 2021 shows higher near-term costs vis-à-vis ATB 2019, which was used to generate the 2020 IRP low solar cost sensitivity. - Like wind, a more aggressive cost decline trajectory is seen in ATB 2021.

AI summary The 2021 Annual Technology Baseline (ATB) indicates higher near-term costs compared to the 2019 ATB, which was used for the 2020 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) low solar cost sensitivity. Similar to wind, ATB 2021 shows a more aggressive cost decline trajectory for solar.

1. Scope of Evergreen IRP 2022 Update – Assumptions AREA and the MEUs agree that changes have occurred since 2020 that warrant significant modeling updates. On Slide 2 of the 2022 Evergreen IRP Study Scope, NS Power states that the "evergr...

AI summary AREA and MEUs emphasize the need for updated assumptions in the Evergreen IRP 2022 study, requiring stakeholder input on GHG compliance modeling, Net Zero 2035 targets, firm import capacity, interconnection projects (TSR 411/412), battery storage, wind integration, and coal conversions. They stress transparency and timely information sharing to ensure assumptions reflect current data.

Planning Environment Changes There are a few points where we were not perfectly clear about NS Power's intentions regarding the changes in the planning environment. - a) NS Rate Base Procurement: We assume that NS Power will include this a...

AI summary The text outlines NS Power's uncertainties regarding resource commitments, Mersey Redevelopment evaluation, and reliability reassessments for transmission links. It notes updated wind resource modeling to address stability issues and the need to reflect early findings in IRP modeling.

Opportunities from Dispatch Improvements While the details of any procurement of IT systems recommended in Concentric's Dispatch Study are outside the scope of the IRP, the IRP planning team should coordinate with the market and operations...

AI summary The text highlights opportunities from improved dispatch systems, emphasizing coordination between IRP and operations teams to model IT system benefits. It stresses evaluating dispatch within the entire asset portfolio, not just individual generators, and suggests leveraging hydro units for AGC to reduce ancillary service needs. The Dispatch Study's findings on portfolio-wide assessments are referenced.

Timeline NS Power's proposed process and schedule for major revisions to the IRP are reasonable, and we have no suggested changes. However, the scope of recent regulatory, procurement, and other changes make it imperative that NS Power re-...

AI summary NS Power's proposed IRP revisions are deemed reasonable, but stakeholders urge re-evaluation of major projects due to regulatory and procurement changes. Concerns include independent evaluation of generation/storage resources and reliance on outdated 2020 IRP scenarios. An expedited process with stakeholder input and sensitivity analyses is recommended to address updated policies and ensure alignment with current planning environments.

Clarifications from the Action Plan Presentation - 1. Renewable to Retail . The presentation indicated that there was some RtR activity over the last year. Can NS Power share any information regarding that activity? - 2. Near-Term Firm Imp...

AI summary The document outlines four questions raised during a regulatory proceeding, focusing on NS Power's Renewable to Retail (RtR) activity, near-term firm imports, updates on Transmission Study Reports (TSR 411/412), and potential Newfoundland imports. The inquiries seek clarity on transmission capacity, supply sources, and infrastructure requirements.

1. Planning Environment Changes - Slide two of NS Power's Evergreen IRP 2022 Scope and Timeline identifies several significant - environmental policy changes that have occurred since the completion of NS Power's IRP in - November 2020. The...

AI summary The document outlines key environmental policy changes impacting Nova Scotia's energy planning, including a 2030 renewable electricity standard (80% from renewables, 1100 GWh from IPPs), the Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act (EGCCRA) mandating coal phase-out by 2030 and GHG targets, federal carbon pricing updates, and a draft net-zero electricity sector discussion paper. E1 supports revising IRP scenarios to reflect these changes.

Treatment of Carbon Pricing - E1 believes the effects of carbon pricing remain relevant in the context of the 2022 Evergreen - IRP Process. In the IRP Action Plan update, NS Power states: - NS Power is currently modeling multiple options f...

AI summary E1 emphasizes the need to incorporate diverse carbon pricing options in the 2022 Evergreen IRP Process, noting NS Power's modeling of GHG compliance scenarios. E1 recommends treating demand response as firm capacity, including electrification costs in IRP modeling, updating load forecasts, and pairing DSM scenarios with IRP sensitivities to address environmental policy and electrification impacts.

Attachment 2 NS Power Responses to Stakeholder Comments Theme Stakeholder Comment NS Power Response of the lowest-cost resource plans. The proposed Atlantic Loop has been identified as a mechanism to enable this and NS Power is progressing...

AI summary NS Power outlines its approach to integrating renewable energy and regional collaboration to meet Net Zero 2035 goals. It mentions the Atlantic Loop and the Atlantic Clean Power Roadmap as key initiatives, along with the importance of emerging non-emitting resources in the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) update.

CONDITIONS INITIATING EVERGREEN IRP - Planning environment changes noted in the 2021 IRP Action Plan Update indicate modeling updates are warranted: - Environmental Policy changes (carbon policy and pricing, 2030 coal phase-out, 80% RES, a...

AI summary The document outlines conditions for initiating an evergreen Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) due to changes in the planning environment, including updates to environmental policies, resource options, and electrification. Modeling updates are warranted based on significant changes observed post-2020 IRP.

PRELIMINARY DRIVERS AND SENSITIVITIES Clean Energy Policy Electrification Resource Strategy Sensitivities Net-Zero Electricity 2035 Net-Zero Electricity 2050 Current Policy and Trends Hybrid Peak Mitigation Regional Integration Distributed...

AI summary The document outlines preliminary drivers and sensitivities related to clean energy policy, electrification, resource strategy, and key sensitivities such as low-cost non-emitting capacity and battery storage. It references the 2030 coal phase-out and 80% renewable energy target by 2030.

Planning Environment Changes Clean Electricity Regulation (CER) Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) has announced its intention to develop a Clean Electricity Regulation (CER) designed to achieve Net Zero GHGemissionsforthe electr...

AI summary Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) plans a Clean Electricity Regulation (CER) to achieve net-zero electricity sector emissions by 2035. NS Power engaged with ECCC on stakeholder input, emphasizing reliability, affordability, and GHG credit frameworks. ECCC's proposed CER under CEPA sets 2035 performance standards, with NS Power anticipating ongoing stakeholder engagement on modeling outcomes.

Atlantic Loop Since October of 2022,NS Power investment in the Atlantic Loop has been paused as a result of the legislated electricity rate cap (Bill 212). Despite these constraints,NS Poweris continuing to progressthe following: - Discuss...

AI summary NS Power paused investment in the Atlantic Loop due to Bill 212's electricity rate cap but continues discussions with Hydro Quebec for renewable energy imports/exports and seeks federal funding for the project's regional importance.

Electrification Strategy

AI summary The document introduces an electrification strategy under consideration by Nova Scotia Power (NSP), though no specific details are provided in the text. Further analysis of the full proceeding is required to identify key initiatives, cost implications, and regulatory considerations.

Action Plan Item 2 The focus in 2022 for the Electrification Strategy involved working with E3 to evaluate and identify impacts of, and strategies to enable, beneficial electrification inNova Scotia. The electrification strategy components...

AI summary In 2022, Nova Scotia's Electrification Strategy focused on evaluating beneficial electrification impacts and strategies through tasks including jurisdictional scans, load shape modeling, affordability analysis, and a roadmap. Key work involved assessing electrification's role in Net Zero, analyzing heat pump and EV adoption impacts, and developing a cost-benefit tool for electrification scenarios.

Electrification Strategy Jurisdictional Scan/Load Shapes - E3 completed a jurisdictional scan of North America, which confirmed the following areas offocusfor electrification inNova Scotia: - Transportation electric vehicle (EV) charging i...

AI summary E3's jurisdictional scan identified transportation EV infrastructure and building electrification as key focus areas for Nova Scotia. Load shapes were developed to assess peak load impacts from heat pump adoption and EV managed charging scenarios, integrated into the evergreen IRP work. Two scenarios were analyzed: current policy trends and a hybrid dual-fuel approach reducing peak load requirements.

Incremental Annual Load Growth from Building Electrification Incremental Non-Coincident Building Peak Demand Forecast The Stock Rollover charts at left demonstrate the breakdown of heating sources by building electrification scenario. The...

AI summary The document analyzes load growth and peak demand impacts under different building electrification scenarios. High-performance heat pumps in the best-in-class scenario reduce annual load growth, while dual-fuel scenarios use backup fuel during cold periods to mitigate peak load increases.

Cost Benefit Analysis E3 and NS Power developed a cost benefit analysis tool to enable the analysis of building and transportation electrification solutions and the impacts of various programs. The metrics produced as part of the cost bene...

AI summary E3 and NS Power developed a cost-benefit analysis tool to evaluate building and transportation electrification solutions. The model assesses participant costs, ratepayer impacts, and societal costs, considering factors like EV purchase costs, energy savings, and emission reductions in transportation and building sectors.

Electrification Strategy Roadmap

AI summary The document outlines a roadmap for electrification strategy, focusing on transitioning to clean energy and enhancing grid reliability through integrated resource planning and regulatory compliance.

Key Findings E3 and NS Power developed an Electrification Strategy Roadmap to summarize key findings and recommendations on programming to support beneficial electrification in both the transportation and building sectors. Based on the res...

AI summary E3 and NS Power developed an Electrification Strategy Roadmap highlighting benefits of electrification in transportation and buildings, including emission reductions and cost savings. Policy changes and time-of-use rates are recommended to manage loads and avoid rebound peaks. Advanced building tech adoption is emphasized for peak load mitigation.

Roadmap Item 7 The 2022 load forecast includes consideration for electrification growth from increased heat pump adoption and the shift to electrification in the commercial and industrial sectors, supported by federal and provincial electr...

AI summary The 2022 load forecast incorporates electrification growth from heat pump adoption and industrial/commercial sector shifts, supported by federal and provincial policies. NS Power's evergreen IRP process extends the 2022 report to 2050, aligning with 2020 IRP scenarios and including DSM assumptions. Post-filing policies like the 2026 federal EV sales target and 2025 provincial oil heat restrictions may accelerate electrification impacts.

Fast Acting Generation – CT IRP Action Plan Item 3c The 2020 IRP identified that new fast acting generation is required to support coal phase out and thermal unit retirements, integration of variable renewable generation, and load growth d...

AI summary The 2020 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) identified the need for new fast acting generation to support coal phase out and system reliability with the integration of variable renewable energy. NS Power conducted a survey of available fast acting generation technologies, focusing on peaking power, ancillary services, and hydrogen compatibility.

The results of the LCOE andNPV RR analysisindicate the following: - Although Frame/Industrial GTs have a relative capital cost advantage to aeroderivative and RICE, disadvantages include higher heat rates and relatively lower flexibility....

AI summary The analysis of LCOE and NPV RR indicates that Frame/Industrial GTs have lower capital costs but higher heat rates and less flexibility compared to aeroderivative and RICE units. RICE units become more beneficial with higher capacity factors due to superior heat rates and turndown ratios. A combination of Aero GTs and RICE offers greater flexibility despite a small CAPEX premium.

Wind Procurement Strategy Action Plan Item 3d The 2022 focus for the Wind Procurement Strategy included the following components: - Support of the Provincial Rate Base Procurement (RBP) program including the completion of Interconnection F...

AI summary The 2022 Wind Procurement Strategy focused on supporting the Provincial Rate Base Procurement (RBP) program and progressing NS Power ECEIwind projects, including the completion of Interconnection Feasibility Studies.

Nova Scotia Rate Base Procurement On July 9, 2021, the Province of Nova Scotia announced the 'Rate Base Procurement' program to acquire low-cost renewable generation to serve Nova Scotia Power customers. Procurement parametersinclude the f...

AI summary Nova Scotia launched the Rate Base Procurement program in 2021 to acquire renewable energy for Nova Scotia Power customers. The program targets 1100 GWh of renewable energy from projects up to 100 MW, with a deadline of December 31, 2025. In 2022, the RBP portfolio included 5 wind projects totaling 372 MW, with an average energy rate of $53.17 CAD/MWh.

Nova Scotia Power Wind Projects NS Powerincluded an ECEI Wind Project as an itemforsubsequentsubmittal in the 2022 ACE Plan. This projectincludesthe development of new wind assetsinNova Scotia underthe ECEI project. Overthe course of 2022,...

AI summary Nova Scotia Power included an ECEI Wind Project in the 2022 ACE Plan. The project involves developing new wind assets in Nova Scotia. However, due to the recent electricity rate cap legislation (Bill 212), the project has been paused.

Roadmap Item 2 In parallel with the Wind Procurement Strategy, a series of comprehensive transmission planning studies are ongoing to determine required changesto systemor operationalsupportin orderto maximize levels of wind integration. W...

AI summary Roadmap Item 2 discusses ongoing transmission planning studies in parallel with the Wind Procurement Strategy to support wind integration. A consultant with global expertise in Inverter Based Resources (IBRs) advanced a scope of work in 2022, including simulation model updates and detailed system studies on system inertia, system strength, and maximum wind capacity.

System Inertia Studies to date find no unusual or unexpected results. Loss of inertia from the retirement of thermal generating units can be replaced with a mix of Synchronous Inertial Response from remaining thermal plants and synchronous...

AI summary Studies on system inertia show that the loss from retiring thermal units can be mitigated through a combination of synchronous condensers, grid-scale batteries, and inverter-based resources. The documentation will provide specific recommendations.

Wind Integration Studies 2023 Work Plan The 2023 work plan will incorporate findings from the Inertia and System Strength studiesto refine maximumwind study scenarios : - Continue to develop simulation models for study of additional scenar...

AI summary The 2023 work plan for Wind Integration Studies will incorporate findings from inertia and system strength studies to refine maximum wind scenarios, develop simulation models for new technologies, and update transmission system interconnection requirements to support a grid with high inverter-based resource penetration.

Roadmap Item 1 The 2020 IRP resource plans selected coal to gas conversions in roughly half of the key scenarios examined, indicating that converted units are a cost-effective source of dispatchable firmcapacity atrelatively low-capacity f...

AI summary The 2020 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) included coal-to-gas conversions as a cost-effective source of dispatchable firm capacity. Progress on the ECEI Coal-to-Gas conversion project advanced in 2022, but the project has been paused due to recent electricity rate cap legislation (Bill 212). Natural gas supply options are being evaluated due to pipeline constraints.

Roadmap Item 4 NS Power's focus for low emitting fuels (specifically hydrogen) in 2022 has been to understand the potential future value of Hydrogen to the power system. This has occurred through engagement with prospective hydrogen produc...

AI summary NS Power is exploring the potential of hydrogen as a low-emitting fuel in 2022, engaging with developers and participating in the Atlantic Hydrogen Alliance. The ECCC Clean Electricity Regulation highlights hydrogen as an emerging technology for a net-zero electricity system. Legislative amendments in October 2022 support hydrogen development in Nova Scotia, and hydrogen is being integrated into the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) modeling to assess its impact on the power system.

Atlantic Hydrogen Alliance The current focus of the Atlantic Hydrogen Alliance is to support a pathway to enabling green hydrogen production in the region. As a result, the AHA are supporting the development of discussion papers through th...

AI summary The Atlantic Hydrogen Alliance (AHA) is focused on enabling green hydrogen production in Atlantic Canada by supporting discussion papers through the Enabling Conditions Working Group. Key themes include codes and standards, access to renewable electricity, and Atlantic Canadian representation in federal hydrogen working groups.

Updated Renewables/Storage Cost Trajectories Roadmap Item 5 This chart reflects the updated LCOE values for renewable generating resources included in the updated evergreen IRP assumptions.

AI summary This section presents updated Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) values for renewable generating resources as part of the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) assumptions. The chart provides a visual representation of these updated cost trajectories.

The shape of the LCOE trajectory between 2023 and 2033 is a result of the Investment Tax Credit (ITC) for qualifying renewables combined with technology cost decline forecasts. Sub-Technology Capacity Factor Onshore Wind 39% Offshore Wind...

AI summary The LCOE trajectory between 2023 and 2033 is influenced by the Investment Tax Credit (ITC) for qualifying renewables and technology cost declines. The table provides capacity factors for onshore wind, offshore wind, and solar, with a note that the offshore wind capacity factor is a high assumption from the 2020 IRP.

The 2020 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) process identified both [Action Plan and Roadmap](https://irp.nspower.ca/files/key-documents/final-irp-report/E3_NS-Power-2020-IRP-Report_Summary_Nov-27-2020.pdf) items intended to advance NS Power's...

AI summary The 2020 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) process identified key actions to advance NS Power's long-term electricity strategy. An evergreen IRP process was proposed to refine the plan based on environmental, load, and resource changes. The 2023 evergreen IRP includes updated assumptions, modeling scenarios, and results to align with Nova Scotia's 2030 environmental targets and support a decarbonized future.

MODELING APPROACH Capacity expansion and production cost optimization modeling developed least-cost portfolios for each scenario. The scenarios are compliant with current legislation, including the 2030 environmental policy targets of coal...

AI summary The modeling approach outlines scenarios for capacity expansion and production cost optimization, aligned with 2030 environmental targets (coal phase-out, 80% renewable electricity) and net-zero timelines (2035, 2050). Scenarios vary by electrification pace, resource strategy (including the Atlantic Loop), and sensitivities. Results include minimized total system costs (NPVRR), emissions, reserve margins, and generation profiles.

KEY FINDINGS Based on the common themes observed, the following are the key guiding principles to inform the Action Plan and Roadmap Items: - Variable renewable capacity additions are required to meet the 2030 targets. Up to 1500MW of addi...

AI summary The key findings emphasize the need for 1500MW of additional wind and 200MW of solar capacity by 2030, the critical role of the Reliability Tie and battery storage, the value of the Atlantic Loop for lower costs and emissions, and the importance of emerging technologies like SMRs. NS Power has updated its 2020 IRP Action Plan based on 2023 modeling.

CAPACITY ADDITIONS The optimized capacity additions highlight the transition of the power system to an increased penetration of variable renewable energy, backed by fast acting firm capacity resources (Battery and Combustion Turbine) as th...

AI summary The document discusses capacity additions in Nova Scotia's power system, emphasizing the integration of variable renewable energy with battery and combustion turbine resources. Fuel conversions (coal-to-gas, coal-to-oil) are highlighted as low-cost, reliable firm capacity sources during peak demand or resource unavailability, aligning with common industry observations.

Wind & Solar - There is a similar wind buildout for all scenarios between 2025 and 2030. For all scenarios modeled, a significant buildout of approximately 1500MW of new wind capacity (beyond the 600MW in service today) is added to the sys...

AI summary The document outlines wind and solar capacity expansions up to 2030, including 1500MW of new wind and 200MW of solar. It describes the bi-directional Atlantic Loop scenario involving Hydro Quebec, comparing expansion timelines between scenarios with and without the Loop.

Integration Assets - The reliability tie[1](#page-7-3) is required in all scenarios to support the integration of variable renewable generation (wind and solar) and to serve as the first leg of the Atlantic Loop (the latter in the with Atl...

AI summary The document discusses the necessity of the Reliability Tie for integrating variable renewable energy (wind and solar) and supporting the Atlantic Loop. It also highlights the addition of synchronous condensers by 2030 to support wind integration, with future studies confirming additional needs. Figures illustrate new resource capacity by 2030, 2035, and 2050.

GENERATION MIX The evergreen IRP modeling results demonstrate that annual generation profiles are increasingly decarbonized through the planning horizon in line with environmental policy changes in 2030 and 2035 (please refer toFigure 4)....

AI summary The IRP modeling highlights a decarbonized generation mix by 2035, driven by wind energy and grid-scale batteries, with peaking gas turbines. Wind generation increases across scenarios, but curtailment ranges 10–45% due to integration constraints. No Atlantic Loop scenarios show higher emissions but achieve over 90% reduction from 2005 levels.

ITEM 1: REGIONAL INTEGRATION STRATEGY Develop a Regional Integration Strategy to provide access to firm capacity and low-carbon energy while increasing the reliability of Nova Scotia's interconnection with North America. With virtually no...

AI summary Nova Scotia seeks to develop a Regional Integration Strategy to enhance access to firm capacity and low-carbon energy, improve interconnection reliability with North America, and support wind integration. The strategy is necessary due to limited hydro power potential and coal phase-out, requiring a reliability tie independent of the Atlantic Loop.

ITEM 2: ELECTRIFICATION Electrification is a key variable in this IRP as increased electric vehicle (EV) adoption and heating electrification play a significant role in increasing load requirements through the planning horizon. The evergre...

AI summary Electrification is a critical factor in Nova Scotia's Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), driven by rising electric vehicle adoption and heating electrification. These trends are projected to increase load requirements by approximately 200MW by 2030, as outlined in the evergreen IRP load forecast.

Item 2a: Electrification Strategy Publish Electrification Strategy report, developed as part of the IRP Action Plan, in 2023 with opportunity for stakeholder review and comment.

AI summary The Electrification Strategy report, developed as part of the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) Action Plan in 2023, is to be published with opportunities for stakeholder review and comment.

Item 2b: Data Collection Continue to collect detailed data, including data on the quantity, flexibility and hourly load shape of incremental electrification demand, to assist with further system planning work. Updated 14 IRP Action Plan an...

AI summary The proceeding emphasizes the need to collect detailed data on electrification demand, including quantity, flexibility, and hourly load shape, to support system planning. This aligns with the Atlantic Clean Power Roadmap and the updated IRP Action Plan and Roadmap.

Item 3c: Fast Acting Generating Capacity Initiate development of new fast-acting generating capacity resourcesto address growing demand, balance variable renewable generation, and maintain the reliability of the Nova Scotia system. Scope w...

AI summary Initiate development of new fast-acting generating capacity (300MW by 2027, 300-600MW by 2030) with fuel flexibility including hydrogen to balance renewables and maintain system reliability.

Item 3g: Synchronous Condensers Complete generator site-specific system impact studies for new variable renewable generation to assess the need for synchronous condenser support. Progress the development of 100 - 200MVA of synchronous cond...

AI summary The document outlines the need for system impact studies for new variable renewable generation and proposes developing 100-200MVA of synchronous condensers by 2030 to enhance system reliability and strength as renewable energy integration increases.

Item 4b: Hybrid Peak Electrification Scenario Further assess the value of the hybrid peak building electrification scenario based on the outcomes of the evergreen IRP. This will include development of program cost estimates and validation...

AI summary The hybrid peak electrification scenario is to be evaluated using the evergreen IRP's outcomes, focusing on program cost estimates and savings validation. NS Power will draw on experiences from North American utilities implementing similar programs to enhance the scenario's value.

ITEM 1: WIND INTEGRATION STUDIES Publish the results ofthe ongoing wind integration studiesin 2023. Provide guidance on integration asset requirements as an outcome in alignment with the planned variable renewable capacity additions. Conti...

AI summary The proceeding requires publishing 2023 wind integration study results, aligning asset requirements with variable renewable capacity additions, and monitoring for divergence from the evergreen IRP's assumptions, with updates triggered as needed.

ITEM 4: INSTALLED COSTS OF WIND, SOLAR AND ENERGY STORAGE Continue to track the installed costs of wind, solar, and energy storage to look for significant variations from the trajectories analyzed in the evergreen IRP. If observed, update...

AI summary The document instructs continuing tracking of installed costs for wind, solar, and energy storage to identify deviations from the evergreen IRP's trajectories, with potential updates to the capacity mix if significant variations are observed.

ITEM 9: OFFSHORE WIND Support the provincial plan for Offshore Wind with planning analyses as appropriate; monitor technology, cost, and policy development.

AI summary The item supports the provincial plan for Offshore Wind, emphasizing the need for planning analyses and monitoring of technology, cost, and policy development.

CONCLUSION The evergreen IRP Action Plan and Roadmap will play a key role in enabling NS Power to meet the challenges and opportunities of the ever-evolving electricity planning environment. This plan serves to enable the path to 2030 whil...

AI summary The evergreen IRP Action Plan and Roadmap are central to NS Power's strategy for achieving 2030 decarbonization targets and building a resilient energy future. The plan emphasizes stakeholder engagement, adaptability, and long-term planning while acknowledging evolving factors like electrification, climate policies, and renewable technology advancements.

GLOSSARY The modeling scenarios and their descriptions can be accesse[d here.](https://irp.nspower.ca/files/key-documents/annual-evergreen-materials/Evergreen-IRP-Updated-Modeling-Scenarios-Descriptions.pdf) For additional definitions, ple...

AI summary The glossary defines key terms related to energy infrastructure and planning, including the Reliability Tie, Atlantic Loop, and Variable Renewable Energy. It also introduces the Modified Mid DSM (MDSM) plan, a demand-side management strategy modeled in the 2020 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP).

SUMMARY OF FINDINGS – DRAFT RESULTS The following are high level key findings and insights from the draft results: - All scenarios modeled incorporate the addition of significant capacity of variable renewables resources, which will requir...

AI summary The draft results highlight the need for further study on variable renewables' system impacts, decreasing gas generation post-2030 coal phase-out, lower NPVRR with Atlantic Loop in-service dates, and increased curtailment with rising wind capacity. Optimized plans balance gas resources and emerging tech to meet 2035 net-zero targets.

CE1-E1-R1 NZ 2035-CURRENT POLICY AND TRENDS -ATLANTIC LOOP Preliminary Scenario Metrics and Evaluation 26 Year NPVRR ($MM 2025$) $19,011 Key Input Assumptions and Observations 26 Year NPVRR with End Effects ($MM 2025$) $26,005 Capacity Exp...

AI summary The document outlines preliminary scenario metrics and evaluation for the 2035-current policy and trends related to the Atlantic Loop. It includes net present value of rate returns, capacity expansion plans, and carbon emissions projections from 2025 to 2050. Key assumptions include the phase-out of coal by 2030, the addition of renewable energy sources, and the implementation of carbon pricing.

CE1-E1-R2 NZ 2035-CURRENT POLICY AND TRENDS -NO ATLANTIC LOOP Preliminary Scenario Metrics and Evaluation 26 Year NPVRR ($MM 2025$) $19,263 Key Input Assumptions and Observations(as compared to CE1-E1-R1) Capacity Expansion 26 Year NPVRR w...

AI summary The scenario analysis shows higher NPVRR and emissions without the Atlantic Loop, with 750 MW SMR by 2050 and earlier gas capacity additions, leading to increased reliance on emitting generation.

NZ 2035-CURRENT POLICY AND TRENDS -NO ATLANTIC LOOP -HIGH DISTRIBUTED ENERGY Preliminary Scenario Metrics and Evaluation 26 Year NPVRR ($MM 2025$) $16,869 Key Input Assumptions and Observations 26 Year NPVRR with End Effects ($MM 2025$) $2...

AI summary This section discusses a scenario analysis for NZ 2035, focusing on policy and trends with high distributed energy penetration and no Atlantic Loop. Key findings include higher NPVRR, increased gas capacity, and higher CO emissions from 2035-2050 due to higher installed gas capacity and variable renewable energy curtailment.

CE1-E1-R1-MMDSM NZ 2035-CURRENT POLICY AND TRENDS -ATLANTIC LOOP - MOD MID DSM Preliminary Scenario Metrics and Evaluation 26 Year NPVRR ($MM 2025$) $19,205 Key Input Assumptions and Observations 26 Year NPVRR with End Effects ($MM 2025$)...

AI summary The document evaluates the Modified Mid DSM (MMDSM) scenario's financial and environmental impacts compared to the base case (CE1-E1-R1). Key findings include a 26-year NPVRR increase of ~$0.4B, reduced wind capacity by ~500 MW, and increased SMR capacity (150 MW by 2050). Total emissions from 2025-2050 are comparable to the base case despite these changes.

NZ 2035-CURRENT POLICY AND TRENDS -ATLANTIC LOOP - ATLANTIC LOOP ADJUSTED TIMING Preliminary Scenario Metrics and Evaluation 26 Year NPVRR ($MM 2025$) $18,788 Key Input Assumptions and Observations 26 Year NPVRR with End Effects ($MM 2025$...

AI summary The document presents preliminary scenario metrics and evaluation for the Atlantic Loop project, including NPVRR values, CO emissions, and capacity expansion considerations. The analysis compares different planning scenarios, noting that delaying the Atlantic Loop's in-service date to 2035 still provides value despite higher NPVRR and emissions compared to previous plans.

WIND - All scenarios continue to add significant wind resources with total capacity reaching 1800 MW by 2030 including existing wind and committed projects - Absence of the Atlantic Loop drives higher wind capacity builds earlier in the pl...

AI summary All scenarios project significant wind capacity additions, reaching 1800 MW by 2030. The absence of the Atlantic Loop accelerates wind builds before 2033 but results in similar 2050 totals compared to scenarios with the Atlantic Loop. The modified mid-DSM scenario shows the lowest wind development among scenarios.

SOLAR - Some scenarios select up to ~150 MW of grid scale solar by 2030 if Atlantic Loop is delayed or not included in the scenario - Highest installed capacity of solar is reflected in the HDER scenario by design, increasing to 1500 MW in...

AI summary The text outlines solar capacity scenarios, noting up to 150 MW by 2030 if Atlantic Loop is delayed and 1500 MW in the 2040s under the HDER scenario. High solar penetration requires analysis of grid stability, system strength, and operability.

GAS AND OIL RESOURCES - All scenarios sustain existing gas resources through the planning horizon, providing firm capacity but with declining energy output as additionalrenewable resources are added to the system - All scenarios select the...

AI summary All scenarios sustain existing gas resources through the planning horizon, with declining energy output as renewables expand. Coal units are converted to HFO operation by 2030, and 150-450 MW of new fast-acting gas resources are added to ensure firm capacity and balance variable renewable generation.

WIND AND SOLAR - Significant contribution from wind generation for all scenarios; additional wind generation in the No Atlantic Loop scenario as compared to CE1-E1-R1 in 2030 and beyond - DelayedAtlantic Loop scenario showing the highest s...

AI summary The text discusses the significant role of wind and solar generation in various scenarios, noting higher solar generation in the Delayed Atlantic Loop scenario and increased curtailment due to system constraints as wind capacity increases.

FIRM IMPORTS • Less reliance on firm import energy over the planning horizon in the delayed Atlantic Loop scenario as a result of the systemadding othertypes of generating capacity (solar, CT)in the early yearsto meetthe 2030 environmental...

AI summary The document discusses reduced reliance on firm import energy in the delayed Atlantic Loop scenario due to the addition of other generating capacities, such as solar and CT, to meet 2030 environmental targets.

MODELING UPDATES: ASSUMPTIONS Assumption Update Rationale 2023 to 2030 Carbon Policy The Province of Nova Scotia will be developing carbon policy regulations (NS OBPS) to establish the performance standards for emitting generation in the e...

AI summary The document outlines modeling updates and assumptions related to carbon policy, ML imports, ECEI projects, and federal investment tax credits. These updates are influenced by new legislation, resource adequacy studies, and federal incentives affecting energy planning in Nova Scotia.

PLANNING ENVIRONMENT CHANGES FEDERAL INVESTMENT TAX CREDIT (ITC) The Federal Government announced an investment tax credit for clean technologies, with a focus on net-zero technologies and battery storage solutionsto incent progresstowards...

AI summary The Federal Government has introduced a 30% refundable investment tax credit (ITC) for clean technologies, including solar, wind, SMRs, and storage systems, aimed at promoting net-zero technologies. The ITC will be available from 2025 and will phase out by 2035. The tax credit will impact capital cost assumptions in the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) modeling.