Topic:"Renewable Energy" in M12247

For Action Plan/Roadmap Items with the most recent updates included in the Path to 2030 document filed with the 2025 ACE Plan in December of 2024, please see the references below (UARB Matter M12012): Action Plan/Roadmap Item Topic Path to...

AI summary The document outlines updates to the Action Plan/Roadmap Items included in the Path to 2030 document, filed with the 2025 ACE Plan. It references specific sections and pages from the document, including topics such as regional integration, electrification strategy, wind procurement, and demand response programming.

Planning Environment Updates Clean Electricity Regulations – Alignment to Provincial Policy - Roadmap Item 5 Emitting generation is required to balance wind and ensure grid reliability and to meet customer demand - o Level of use of emitti...

AI summary The document outlines Nova Scotia Power's (NSP) alignment of the Clean Electricity Regulations (CER) with provincial policy, emphasizing the need for emitting generation to balance wind energy and ensure grid reliability. It highlights the 80% renewable energy target by 2030, the role of combustion turbines as fast-acting generation, and the CER's support for thermal fleet flexibility.

The following table defines the application of the AEL based on the definition of various units on the system: Type of Unit Description Date AEL starts to apply New Units A unit commissioned on or after January 1, 2025, and that is not a p...

AI summary The table outlines the application of the AEL (Assessment and Evaluation Limit) based on the type of unit and its commissioning date. New units commissioned after 2025 face AEL application starting in 2035 or upon commissioning, while existing units have AEL application dates tied to their commissioning dates and specific regulations.

Regional Integration Strategy Action Plan Item 1 This strategy will identify methods of gaining access to firm capacity and low-carbon energy while increasing the reliability of Nova Scotia's interconnection with North America. The key com...

AI summary The Regional Integration Strategy aims to enhance Nova Scotia's access to firm capacity and low-carbon energy while improving interconnection reliability with North America. Key components include monitoring firm capacity imports and advancing the reliability tie project.

Procurement Strategy for Variable Renewable Resources Provincial Green Choice Program Action Plan Item 3d The provincial Green Choice Program (GCP) focuses on acquiring renewable generation to serve participating NS Power customers with 10...

AI summary Nova Scotia's Green Choice Program (GCP) aims to procure 625MW of wind capacity from Indigenous-led projects to supply large-scale customers with 100% renewable energy, supporting NS Power's 2030 decarbonization goals. Selected projects include partnerships with First Nations in Pictou, Hants, Halifax, Inverness, and Antigonish counties, managed by independent Procurement Administrator Coho.

Hydrogen Roadmap Items 3 & 11 NS Power is engaged with the prospective H2 developers is to assess both the impacts of future development on the power system and assess future opportunities for the use of H2 as a green fuel source. - Hydrog...

AI summary NS Power collaborates with H2 developers to evaluate hydrogen's impact on the power system and its potential as a green fuel. A hydrogen tariff is under development for NSEB approval, while the Evergreen IRP assessed hydrogen's role, excluding it as a resource. Future hydrogen fuel pricing will be revisited via the Evergreen IRP process.

Geothermal in NS – Overview Roadmap Item 8 - As part of the Evergreen Integrated Resource Planning (IRP) process, NSP considers both existing/commercially available sources of generation as well as emerging resources when evaluating our lo...

AI summary Nova Scotia Power (NSP) evaluates geothermal energy as an emerging resource in its Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) up to 2050. Research highlights geothermal's potential for direct heat use and grid-scale electricity via enhanced systems, though the latter remains in global pilot phases. This inclusion supports NSP's long-term electricity strategy.

Geothermal in NS Roadmap Item 8 - The map shows areas where geothermal to support electricity generation in the Province may be possible; all, except for a small region, point to the need for enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) - Geothermal...

AI summary The document discusses the geothermal potential in Nova Scotia, highlighting that most areas require enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) for electricity generation. Temperature and seismic data are limited in some regions, making it difficult to evaluate geothermal potential fully. However, there may be additional areas with potential for geothermal energy.

Advancements in Geothermal Roadmap Item 8 - NSPI spoke with companies operating in the emerging geothermal operations (focused on EGS) to better understand development in the EGS space - Discovered two interesting approaches: - o Use of a...

AI summary The document discusses advancements in geothermal technology, including the use of wellbore systems for heat exchange and closed-loop systems that operate at high temperatures. These approaches involve fluid management and the use of binary cycle plants for electricity generation.

Geothermal – Conclusion Roadmap Item 8 Based on these observations and discussions with geothermal developers, the following is noted for reflecting and evaluating geothermal in NS Power's long-term planning work: - More temperature and se...

AI summary The document outlines the need for more temperature and seismic data in Nova Scotia to assess geothermal potential, notes the need for updated cost assumptions in future Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) work, and highlights that commercialization of Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) is unlikely before 2030.

Hydrogen Enabled Combustion Turbines (CTs) Roadmap Item 8 - In addition to modeling a generic domestic hydrogen production plant load, the availability of a domestic source of hydrogen fuel for the CTs was also enabled in the Evergreen IRP...

AI summary The document discusses updates to the Evergreen Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) regarding hydrogen-enabled combustion turbines (CTs), including current manufacturer capabilities for hydrogen blending, retrofitting requirements, and capital cost adders. The updated information does not necessitate an IRP update, but NS Power will continue monitoring the resource as part of Roadmap Item 8.

Evergreen IRP Roadmap Item 7 - The most recent Evergreen IRP Action Plan and Roadmap was released on [August 8](https://irp.nspower.ca/files/key-documents/annual-evergreen-materials/Evergreen-IRP-Update-to-IRP-Action-Plan-and-Roadmap-2023....

AI summary The document outlines the progress made by NS Power in preparing for future Evergreen Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) updates. It mentions the need for an updated Effective Load Carrying Capability Study (ELCC), advancements in renewable integration based on the IBR report, and monitoring policy changes such as the Clean Electricity Regulations (CER). The NSIESO is required to initiate an IRP within one year of Bill 404 coming into force.

2022 Evergreen Pricing Date Contract NG Market NG Future Contract NG LFO May-29 Jun-29 Jul-29 Aug-29 Sep-29 Oct-29 Nov-29 Dec-29 Jan-30 Feb-30 Mar-30 Apr-30 May-30 Jun-30 Jul-30 Aug-30 Sep-30 Oct-30 Nov-30 Dec-30 REDACTED 2025 Evergreen IR...

AI summary The document discusses the 2022 Evergreen Pricing and the 2025 Evergreen IRP Action Plan and Roadmap Update, focusing on geothermal generation potential in Nova Scotia. It includes a request and response from NSPI regarding the need for additional data and funding for geothermal development.

NON-CONFIDENTIAL 1 Response IR-5: 2 3 (a-c) Please refer to Section 3.2.7 in the 2025 10-Year System Outlook for an update on the 4 generation capacity.1 status and timing of the fast-acting 5 6 (d) NS Power has not pursued updates since t...

AI summary NS Power has not updated its generation capacity plans since the project was transferred in September 2024, as outlined in M12012. They are not currently re-evaluating investment between resources for 2030 targets but will do so as part of the next Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) conducted by the NSIESO. Fast-acting generation is highlighted for its firm capacity value in enabling coal unit retirement.

NON-CONFIDENTIAL - 3 The generation profile demonstrates the supportive nature of the thermal generation in meeting - 4 system load when wind resources are in low supply and/or in periods of peak load demand. 2

AI summary The generation profile highlights thermal generation's role in supporting system load during periods of low wind resource availability and peak demand, ensuring reliability when renewable sources are insufficient.

NON-CONFIDENTIAL 1 Request IR-5: 2 3 Please provide the amount of renewable curtailment that occurred in 2022, 2023, and 4 2024 (annual MWh, and capacity factor of fleet curtailed), and that is expected by the 5 IRP model (e.g., hourly cur...

AI summary The response to Request IR-5 discusses renewable curtailment in Nova Scotia from 2022 to 2024 and projections for 2030 and 2035. It notes that historical curtailment is not indicative of future levels due to increased wind capacity. Data from the Evergreen IRP report and model are referenced, but full historical data is unavailable due to a cyber incident. Future curtailment locations depend on project locations.

Curtailment Peak Day 2030-07-05 Installed Capacity (MW) 2030 Coal Gas - Existing Gas - New CTs & Recips Gas - Conversion Diesel CTs Domestic Hydro Tidal Biomass Wind Solar Maritime Link Blocks HFO - Conversion Hydrogen Battery Market Impor...

AI summary The document provides a detailed table showing installed capacity and generation data for various energy sources on July 4, 2030, highlighting curtailed energy during peak demand periods. It includes data on coal, gas, hydro, wind, solar, and other energy sources, along with curtailment levels.

NON-CONFIDENTIAL 1 Request IR-1: 2 3 Reference: N-1, IRP Action Plan Update – Clean Electricity Regulations – Impacts on 4 NSP Long Term Strategy, p. 16. 5 6 (a) What is the "current policy" referenced here? 7 8 (b) NSPI notes it anticipat...

AI summary The document outlines regulatory requests and responses regarding environmental policy measures, renewable energy targets, and system planning. It references the Clean Electricity Regulations, the 80% renewable energy standard, and the integration of the Reliability Intertie into the Evergreen Integrated Resource Plan (IRP).

- Reference: N-1, IRP Action Plan Update - Provincial Green Choice Program, p. 26. (a) Is 625 MW of wind capacity under contract with NSPI, i.e. have PPAs been executed for each of these projects? If not, what remains outstanding? (b) Plea...

AI summary The response addresses questions about the status of wind capacity under contract with NSPI, noting that two wind farms totaling 262 MW signed PPAs in June 2025 under the Green Choice Program, and provides an update on interconnection status and expected commercial operation dates.

[nspi-combined-interconnection-request-queue(pdf).pdf](https://www.nspower.ca/docs/default-source/pdf-to-upload/nspi-combined-interconnection-request-queue(pdf).pdf?sfvrsn=d56d149_88) IR SIS Status COD 1 Request IR-6: 2 3 Reference: N-1, I...

AI summary The document outlines a request for information regarding the development of a hydrogen tariff by NSPI, including its structure, collaboration partners, pre-requisites for approval, and the need for industrial buyers. NSPI is also asked to file relevant power purchase agreements and identify any provisions that may impact the tariff.

NON-CONFIDENTIAL 1 Request IR-1: 2 3 For the years 2024, 2030 and 2035, please share the total installed generation capacity, and 4 hourly supply-mix, on the: i) winter peak day, and the day prior and following; and on the 5 ii) day of the...

AI summary The request (IR-1) asks for generation capacity and supply-mix data for 2024, 2030, and 2035, including renewable curtailment and demand-side measures. The response notes the Evergreen IRP Model did not model exports, cites the 2023 Load Forecast Report for DSM values, and attributes incomplete data to a cyber incident affecting NS Power's IT systems. Partial data is provided in Attachment 1 and the NS-NB Reliability Intertie model.

Peak Load Hour 2030-01-08 18:00 Installed Capacity (MW) 2030-01-07 22:00 0 462 0 110 0 106 3 75 823 0 125 122 0 0 450 2277 68 2030-01-07 23:00 0 462 0 108 0 69 3 75 826 0 150 117 0 0 350 2160 43 2030-01-08 0 214 0 52 0 67 3 43 1310 0 0 55...

AI summary The document presents a table with data on installed capacity and generation for various time periods around January 8, 2030, including details on curtailed renewables. It provides information on power generation and capacity across different hours and dates.

Peak Load Hour 2035-01-09 18:00 Installed Capacity (MW) 2035 Coal Gas - Existing Gas - New CTs & Recips Gas - Conversion Diesel CTs Domestic Hydro Tidal Biomass Wind Solar Maritime Link Blocks HFO - Conversion Hydrogen Battery Market Impor...

AI summary The document presents a table showing installed capacity and generation data for various energy sources in Nova Scotia during a peak load hour on January 9, 2035. It includes data on coal, gas, hydro, wind, solar, and other sources, along with generation output and curtailed energy.

NON-CONFIDENTIAL 1 Request IR-5: 2 3 What factors, related to the technical capabilities of an energy resource, affect its selection 4 by the model? For example, does a resource's ramp-rate, or capability to provide inertia 5 support affec...

AI summary The response to Request IR-5 outlines that factors affecting the selection of an energy resource in a model include technical capabilities such as ramp rate, inertia, and storage capacity, as well as economic factors like capital cost, fuel price, and emissions cost. These factors vary by resource type and influence dispatch order.

NON-CONFIDENTIAL Request IR-6: Please describe how the province's needs for load variation, frequency regulation, and other ancillary services (including black-start) are expected to change from today to 2030 and 2035? To the extent possib...

AI summary The response outlines how the province will manage load variation, frequency regulation, and ancillary services up to 2030 and 2035. It highlights the role of BESS, wind curtailment, fast-acting generation, and the Maritime Link in managing frequency regulation. Black start capabilities will be enhanced with new generation and potential connections to Newfoundland. Reactive power management will also be improved with new infrastructure.

NON-CONFIDENTIAL 1 Request IR-1: 2 3 On page 13 regarding pooling allowable emissions, NS Power stated: 4 5 The ability to share emissions "room" amongst units allows for: 6 7 • The shift of dispatch to our lower cost and lower emitting un...

AI summary The document discusses the concept of 'emissions room' and its implications for NS Power's operations, including the shift to lower cost and lower emitting units, reduction in capital expenditures for new CTs, and its impact on the preferred resource plan. NS Power clarifies that 'emissions room' refers to managing total allowable emissions across a unit pool to achieve lower emissions and costs for customers.

- New Auburndale Substation by 2026 1 Request IR-6: 25 vintage to operate using 35 percent hydrogen blending. New units offered on the market 26 are capable of using up to a 35 percent hydrogen blend. To achieve 100 percent hydrogen 27 ble...

AI summary The text discusses the New Auburndale Substation project by 2026 and mentions the use of hydrogen blending in new units, which can operate with up to 35% hydrogen. Retrofitting may be required to achieve 100% hydrogen blending. A 10% capital cost adder was included in the 2023 Evergreen IRP for a natural gas-fired aeroderivative CT to enable 100% hydrogen operation.

Date Filed: July 15, 2025 NSPI (NSEB) IR-7 Page 2 of 2 1 Request IR-8: 2 3 On page 41, NS Power stated that Net Zero Atlantic is assessing the cost and benefits of the 4 hybrid peak mitigation scenario and NS Power will be providing inform...

AI summary The document discusses the status of the Hybrid Heating study and the Effective Load Carrying Capability (ELCC) study. Net Zero Atlantic is conducting a jurisdictional scan and preparing a customer survey for the Hybrid Heating program, with results expected in Q1 2026. NS Power has completed the scope of work for the ELCC study and is seeking a consultant to finalize the study, though no timeline for the final report has been determined.

NON-CONFIDENTIAL Request IR-3: - Please provide an assessment of the implication of the province's offshore wind objectives on - NS Power's long-term resource plan and provide all analysis on the financial and operational - impacts. Respon...

AI summary NS Power's 2023 Evergreen IRP did not select offshore wind in optimized scenarios. Net Zero Atlantic's offshore wind study is ongoing, with NS Power participating as a technical committee member. The study will analyze offshore wind's alignment with provincial objectives.

NON-CONFIDENTIAL 1 Request IR-4: 2 3 Refer to Exhibit N-1, 2025 Evergreen IRP Action Plan and Roadmap update (2025 4 Evergreen IRP) page 10 of 42, regarding the Renewable Electricity Standard (RES). 5 6 Please provide an update on NS Power...

AI summary The text includes two requests (IR-4 and IR-5) related to compliance with the Renewable Electricity Standard (RES) and Clean Electricity Regulations (CER). NS Power is asked to provide updates on RES compliance, details on how its emitting resources are classified under CER, and forecasts of offset purchases for AEL compliance. Responses reference the 2025 10-Year System Outlook report and clarify classification rules for units under CER.

(c) NS Power is not aware of how the NSIESO will determine the specific quantity or timing of new battery energy storage resources. (d) The Clean Power Plan indicates up to 600 MW of new fast acting generation by 2030. This is in alignment...

AI summary NS Power is unaware of how the NSIESO will determine the quantity and timing of new battery energy storage resources. The Clean Power Plan aligns with the 2025 10-Year System Outlook report, which highlights the need for up to 600 MW of new fast acting generation by 2030, based on the most recent load forecast and the 2023 Evergreen IRP.

1 Request IR-4: 2 3 Reference: Clean Electricity Regulations, slides 8-16. 4 5 (a) Describe if and how the CER treatment of new versus planned units will impact future 6 actions related to near-term procurement of thermal generators. 7 8 (...

AI summary The text discusses responses to requests regarding the Clean Electricity Regulations, fuel conversions, and fast-acting generation. NS Power indicates that procurement of thermal units has been transferred to NSIESO, there have been no updates on fuel conversions, and the need for 600 MW of fast-acting generation is based on modeling scenarios and decarbonization goals.

Generation Resource MW Thermal 1392 CT's 226 Hydro 168 Wind 33 Tidal 0 Biomass 56 Maritime Link 150 Maritime Link Imports 7 Other Imports 51 Battery 0 System Peak (MW) and Time (HE) February 21 @ 9AM

AI summary The table lists Nova Scotia's electricity generation resources with their capacities in MW, including Thermal, Hydro, Wind, Biomass, and imports. It also notes the system peak on February 21 at 9AM. The data highlights the distribution of power sources and system load.

Peak Load Hour 1/9/2035 18:00 Installed Capacity (MW) 2035 Coal Gas - Existing Gas - New CTs & Recips Gas - Conversion Diesel CTs Domestic Hydro Tidal Biomass Wind Solar Maritime Link Blocks HFO - Conversion Hydrogen Battery Market Imports...

AI summary The document presents a peak load hour analysis for January 9, 2035, at 18:00, showing installed capacity and generation data from various energy sources, including coal, gas, hydro, wind, solar, and others. It highlights the contribution of different energy sources during specific time intervals and includes curtailed renewable energy data.

rces. In the circumstances, the Board finds that NS Power should continue the activities that are clearly identified and can serve as inputs to the NSIESO's IRP process. In its reply submission, NS Power said it will continue to advance wo...

AI summary The Board directs NS Power to promptly conduct the Effective Load Carrying Capacity (ELCC) study and continue participation in the Net Zero Atlantic Hybrid Peak study. It also expects NS Power to report progress by May 2026. Other IRP-related activities are deemed better suited for the NSIESO's comprehensive process. NS Power disputes some criticisms regarding the Evergreen IRP Update.

RE: M12247 - NOVA SCOTIA POWER INC.'s 2025 Evergreen IRP Action Plan and Roadmap Update Please accept this letter as Notice of Intervention regarding the above Matter. SWEB Development is a developer, owner, and operator of renewable energ...

AI summary SWEB Development seeks intervenor status in M12247 to ensure renewable energy representation in NSPI's 2025 Evergreen IRP. As a renewable generator, SWEB emphasizes its role in Nova Scotia's IPP community and the importance of accurate renewable supply market modeling for future energy planning.

(902) 422-9663 [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]) WWW.NATURALFORCES.CA TO: The Nova Scotia Energy Board ("Board") AND TO: Nova Scotia Power Inc. ("NSPI") RE: M12247 - Nova Scotia Power Inc: 2025 Evergreen IRP Action Plan...

AI summary Natural Forces requests intervenor status in M12247 to ensure renewable energy is properly represented in NSPI's 2025 Evergreen IRP. The intervenor highlights their 300 MW renewable portfolio and commitment to supporting NSPI's renewable targets, emphasizing the need for accurate modeling of renewable supply in the IRP.

May 29, 2025 NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD C/O CRYSTAL HENWOOD ([email protected]) Dear Ms. Henwood, RE: SOLAR NOVA SCOTIA (SNS) - NOTICE OF INTERVENTION - M12247 SNS is a not-for-profit society whose mission is to promote and facil...

AI summary Solar Nova Scotia (SNS), a not-for-profit promoting solar energy adoption, intervenes in the NS Power Evergreen IRP Action Plan & Roadmap Update (M12247). SNS emphasizes the role of solar energy and storage in Nova Scotia's long-term system planning to meet renewable electricity and emissions targets.

Request IR-2: - Regarding Planned Units, on page 14 NS Power stated: - o Planned thermal units (examples: fast acting combustion turbines) are new thermal units in which investments have been made and planning has been advanced in good fai...

AI summary Request IR-2 seeks clarification on whether planned thermal units in the Evergreen IRP meet criteria for exemption from AEL and details the required progression milestones by 2025.

Request IR-7: - On page 39, NS Power provided the following statements: - Today manufactures can support between 5% and 35% hydrogen blending. - Current models would need to be retrofitted to operate using 100% hydrogen as a fuel source. •...

AI summary NS Power states current models require retrofitting for 100% hydrogen operation but not 35% blending. The 10% capital cost adder for hydrogen-capable turbines aligns with the Evergreen IRP. Questions seek clarification on retrofit needs for 35% blending and the 10% assumption's basis (hydrogen vs. diesel CT costs).

1 Request IR-1: Reference: Extent of new modeling in support of Action Plan update. - 2 a. State whether NSP conducted any new capacity expansion or production cost 3 modeling as part of this IRP Action Plan and Roadmap update. - i. If yes...

AI summary The document requests information on NSP's new modeling for the IRP Action Plan update, including capacity expansion, production cost modeling, compliance with Clean Electricity Regulations, use of recent load forecasts and DSM Plan, and reference to Matter M12217.

Request IR-4: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Reference: Clean Electricity Regulations, slides 8-16. - a. Describe if and how the CER treatment of new versus planned units will impact future actions related to near-term procurement of thermal generators....

AI summary Request IR-4 seeks clarification on how Clean Electricity Regulations (CER) affect near-term procurement of thermal generators, NS Power's compliance with CER provisions, and updates on the timeline for new thermal units. Specific focus is on Slide 16's treatment of post-2035 emitting generation and progress milestones for thermal units by 2025.

Request IR-3: - Please provide an assessment of the implication of the province's offshore wind objectives on NS - Power's long-term resource plan and provide all analysis on the financial and operational impacts.

AI summary Request IR-3 seeks an assessment of how Nova Scotia's offshore wind objectives impact NS Power's long-term resource plan, including analysis of financial and operational implications. The request focuses on evaluating alignment between provincial renewable energy goals and NS Power's strategic planning.

Request IR-4: Refer to Exhibit N-1, 2025 Evergreen IRP Action Plan and Roadmap update (2025 Evergreen IRP) page 10 of 42, regarding the Renewable Electricity Standard (RES). Please provide an update on NS Power's compliance with RES requir...

AI summary Request IR-4 asks NS Power to update compliance with the Renewable Electricity Standard (RES) and forecast future adherence, referencing Exhibit N-1 from the 2025 Evergreen IRP Action Plan and Roadmap.

Request IR-15: Refer to Exhibit N-1, 2025 Evergreen IRP page 26 of 42, listing six new projects selected under the Green Choice Program (GCP): Yellow Birch; Melvin Lake; Rhodena; Blueberry Acres; Sugar Maple and Eigg Mountain. - a) Please...

AI summary Request IR-15 seeks the expected in-service dates for six Green Choice Program (GCP) projects (Yellow Birch, Melvin Lake, etc.) and a comparison of their capacity addition schedules with the Evergreen IRP's assumptions.

24 June, 2024 NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD C/O CRYSTAL HENWOOD ([email protected]) Dear Ms. Henwood, M12247 - NS Power: Evergreen IRP Action Plan and Roadmap Update Please accept this letter as Information Requests for Nova Scotia...

AI summary Energy Storage Canada (ESC) requests information from Nova Scotia Power regarding the Evergreen IRP Action Plan, including updates on the Effective Load Carrying Capacity (ELCC) study, Renewable Electricity Standard (RES) contributions, thermal asset generation profiles, IRP model optimization for renewable curtailment, and historical renewable curtailment data for 2022-2024.

- 5. Please provide the amount of renewable curtailment that occurred in 2022, 2023, and 2024 (annual MWh, and capacity factor of fleet curtailed), and that is expected by the IRP model (e.g., hourly curtailment profile for highest curtail...

AI summary The request seeks data on renewable curtailment (2022–2024 and 2030–2035 projections), including annual MWh, capacity factors, and geographic/temporal prevalence. It also inquires about ongoing work post-Decision M10905. The query is submitted by Energy Storage Canada (ESC) to the regulatory proceeding.

19 1 2025 M12247 2 Reference: N-1, IRP Action Plan Update, Item 1: Regional Integration, p.18-20. 3 4 5 (a) With the Reliability Tie being integrated into the system, please provide an update on how wind curtailment is being modelled withi...

AI summary The document text includes several requests related to the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) Action Plan Update, focusing on wind curtailment modeling, renewable curtailment reduction efforts, transmission and distribution system modeling, and the Provincial Green Choice Program. These requests aim to gather updates and insights from NSPI.

Evaluate alternatives to the Mersey hydro system in the next IRP Synapse notes that NSPI did not provide any updates on sustaining capital investments for Mersey in this Action Plan Update. It remains unclear whether NS Power's plan to beg...

AI summary Synapse highlights NSPI's lack of updates on Mersey hydro system capital investments, questioning the economic prudence of NS Power's 2030s investment plan. It recommends evaluating Mersey redevelopment alternatives in the next IRP, noting scenarios with 100 MW firm imports from New Brunswick reduce CT capacity needs by 100 MW.

2.BACKGROUND On April 30, 2025, NSPI filed its 2025 Evergreen IRP Action Plan and Roadmap Update. In this update, NSPI provided an update on electricity planning environment changes, an update on the Action Plan and Roadmap items to date,...

AI summary NSPI filed its 2025 Evergreen IRP Action Plan Update, referencing the Path to 2030 document and relying on prior modeling. The update includes resource pathway planning, electrification strategies, wind procurement, battery storage, and demand response. Resource trajectories are updated based on load forecasts from 2022–2025, with no new capacity modeling conducted.

bmitted its Evergreen IRP, which reflected a comprehensive modeling update of the 2020 IRP. NSPI determined that it should prioritize execution of the following five Action Plan items: [12](#page-5-0) - 1. Regional Integration Strategy : N...

AI summary NSPI submitted its Evergreen IRP, updating the 2020 plan with five action items: advancing the Reliability Tie by 2028, publishing an electrification strategy in 2023, retiring thermal plants (e.g., Trenton 5 by 2027/2028), developing 300–900 MW of new CT generation by 2030, and procuring 1000 MW of renewables by 2030. These reflect priorities for regional integration, electrification, and resource planning.

3.2025 ACTION PLAN UPDATE NSPI recently filed an update to its 2023 Evergreen IRP Action Plan.[16](#page-7-0) This is the fourth annual Action Plan Update. It contains information on changes to the electricity planning environment, as well...

AI summary NSPI updated its 2023 Evergreen IRP Action Plan in 2025, relying on the 2025 10-Year System Outlook and Path to 2030 reports but omitting recent load forecasts and capacity modeling. Critics note it failed to justify increased CT usage in resource plans or compare updates to the 2023 IRP. The plan aligns with the Nova Scotia Clean Power Plan’s 600 MW fast-acting generation target by 2030.

3.1. Changes to Electricity Planning Environment One of the key changes to the electricity planning environment since the 2023 Evergreen IRP process is that the federal government finalized the Clean Electricity Regulations (CER). The CER...

AI summary The federal Clean Electricity Regulations (CER) require 80% renewable energy by 2030 and set emissions limits. NSPI claims its 2023 Evergreen IRP complies with CER, though it anticipates incremental system costs without quantifying them. The CER allows exemptions for planned thermal units meeting construction timelines.

• Thermal Retirement Plan: - o The GRA (General Rate Application) Settlement Agreement submitted to the UARB in 2023 recommended a Decarbonization Deferral Account (DDA) to recover undepreciated thermal asset values and unrecovered decommi...

AI summary The Thermal Retirement Plan discusses NSPI's plans for a depreciation study and the Decarbonization Deferral Account (DDA) to recover thermal asset costs. The Green Choice Program (GCP) procured 625 MW of wind capacity. Demand Response efforts involve analyzing the hybrid peak approach from the 2023 Evergreen IRP, with a report expected in Q1 2026.

4.1. No justification for 600 MW of new CTs by 2030 Synapse finds that NS Power seems to minimize its own IRP modeling implications in the Evergreen IRP case when it comes to near-term projected CT builds. Namely, NSPI presents new CT addi...

AI summary Synapse argues that NS Power's 600 MW CT build projection by 2030 lacks justification, contradicting its own Evergreen IRP model (which shows 450 MW) and the CPP (which supports only 300 MW pre-2030). NS Power cites load forecast changes but ignores other studies and factors.

4.2. A new Evergreen IRP – as soon as possible Given the uncertainty around projected firm capacity resource needs by and beyond 2030, a new Evergreen IRP is necessary to appropriately include all the factors that will impact such an estim...

AI summary A new Evergreen Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) is urgently needed to address uncertainties in Nova Scotia's capacity needs beyond 2030. The transition of IRP responsibilities from NSPI to the IESO under Bill 404 requires a robust NSPI IRP Update to guide the IESO until its first IRP is completed. Key studies like ELCC and Net Zero Atlantic must inform the IRP, along with updated assumptions on resource costs and load projections.

4.4. Mersey Roadmap Item 2 is Sustaining Capital. In the section of the Action Plan Update pertaining to this item, NSPI provides updates on thermal resources and does not provide any updates on sustaining capital investments at the Mersey...

AI summary Mersey Hydro System provides 35 MW firm capacity and 220 GWh/year of renewable energy. NSPI notes that the next IRP should evaluate alternatives like wind and battery storage for cost-effectiveness, referencing the 2025 ACE Plan for sustaining capital details. Historical IRP modeling favored New Brunswick imports over local capacity in 2020.

NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD C/O CRYSTAL HENWOOD ([email protected]) Dear Ms. Henwood, RE: SOLAR NOVA SCOTIA (SNS) – Intervenor Submission - M12247 Solar Nova Scotia (SNS) is a not-for-profit society whose mission is to promote and...

AI summary Solar Nova Scotia (SNS) emphasizes the urgency of integrating distributed energy resources (DERs) into Nova Scotia Power's planning processes, warning that delays in the DERIR report could hinder DER participation in NSIESO initiatives and lead to costly utility-scale investments instead of customer-led solutions.

enefit from these potentially more innovative and cost-effective demand-side and customer led solutions. Thank you for the opportunity to participate in this important proceeding. Very best regards, Roby Douglas, Chair of the SNS Industry...

AI summary The text emphasizes the potential of innovative, cost-effective demand-side and customer-led solutions. It is a submission from the SNS Board of Directors, highlighting the importance of these solutions in the regulatory proceeding. The DERIR workshop is referenced as part of the context.

Offshore wind has uncertain impact on future portfolio One particular planning issue of note is the future of offshore wind in Nova Scotia. The province has set a target to lease 5 gigawatts (GW) of offshore wind by 2030; 12 has produced a...

AI summary Nova Scotia's offshore wind target of 5 GW by 2030 is highlighted, but offshore wind is not included in the selected Integrated Resource Plan (IRP). NS Power notes it as a candidate resource but excluded in scenarios. The analysis calls for NS Power to propose methods to assess offshore wind's impact on the resource portfolio, as NSIESO will handle future IRP analysis.

(902) 422-9663 [[email protected]](mailto:[email protected]) WWW.NATURALFORCES.CA TO: The Nova Scotia Energy Board ("Board") Date: August 19, 2025 RE: M12247 - NS Power: Evergreen IRP Action Plan and Roadmap Update To whom it may co...

AI summary Natural Forces submits an intervenor letter regarding NS Power's Evergreen IRP update, highlighting their 80 MW PSH project at Touquoy Gold Mine and recommending an updated IRP to address firm capacity uncertainties and incorporate BESS resources, as advised by Synapse.

1. Update to Evergreen IRP The NSIESO expects to assume responsibility for system planning, transmission interconnection, and energy and capacity procurement functions in Q4 2025. 1 Synapse Recommendation 1 appropriately points to the need...

AI summary The document outlines updates to the Evergreen Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), emphasizing NSIESO's upcoming role in system planning by Q4 2025. It highlights the need to evaluate Mersey's economic prudence, complete ELCC studies, and align the IRP with the Reliability Tie project. The Board is urged to expedite IRP modeling to avoid delays, even as NS Power transitions responsibilities to NSIESO.

19 August, 2025 NOVA SCOTIA ENERGY BOARD C/O CRYSTAL HENWOOD ([email protected]) Dear Ms. Henwood, RE: Intervenor Submission – Evergreen IRP Action Plan & Roadmap Update (M12247) Energy Storage Canada (ESC) is the national trad...

AI summary Energy Storage Canada (ESC) submits that curtailed renewable electricity in 2030 presents an opportunity to enhance energy security through storage. ESC supports Synapse's call for evaluating alternatives to fossil fuels, recommending lithium-ion batteries, pumped storage, compressed air, and thermal storage as firm capacity options.

preferred plan and all other resource plans, CT capacity continues to be added across the planning horizon, including an additional 150 MW by 2033 in the preferred plan, bringing the total to 620 MW. • When the Load Forecast was updated in...

AI summary The text discusses the need for additional firm capacity in Nova Scotia's electricity system, citing updates to the Load Forecast and the 10-Year System Outlook Reports. It highlights that 600 MW of firm capacity was needed in 2030 to maintain the target 20 percent Planning Reserve Margin (PRM), and that this requirement has decreased slightly to 500 MW in the 2025 report due to planned renewable generation and storage additions.

DATE FILED: September 4, 2025 Page 9 of 19 2023 Load Forecast Report (M11108), April 28, 2023, Figure 2: Historical and Predicted Annual System Peak, page 8. 2023 10 Year System Outlook Report (M11221), June 30, 2023, Figure 19: NS Power 1...

AI summary The document discusses the need for additional firm capacity, particularly fast-acting generation, to maintain the target PRM in Winter 2029/30 and support the transition off coal as outlined in the 2025 10-Year System Outlook Report. It references the Evergreen IRP and the Province's Clean Power Plan, and notes that NS Power supports the procurement of 300 MW of fast-acting generation.

NSIESO, IN THE MATTER OF an application by the Nova Scotia Independent Energy System Operator for an Order or Orders made pursuant to Section 29 of the Act for the review of its proposed expenditure and revenue .requirements for the fiscal...

AI summary The document discusses the retirement timeline for Trenton 5 and the need for replacement firm capacity, as outlined in the 2025 10-Year System Outlook Report. NS Power clarifies that retiring coal-fired generation depends on reliable replacement capacity and that lower utilization of thermal resources is due to the shift toward renewable energy and flexible operations.

5.0 SMALL BUSINESS ADVOCATE SUBMISSION The SBA "identified several key issues that are critical for effective long-term resource planning to serve Nova Scotia customer needs in a safe, reliable, and economical manner", including "NS Power...

AI summary The SBA highlights the importance of NS Power-NSIESO collaboration for the updated IRP, aligns near-term capacity needs with prior studies (300-900 MW fast-acting generation by 2030), notes limited ELCC study changes, and stresses the need for offshore wind impact analysis. NS Power confirms offshore wind inclusion in the IRP and ELCC updates.

6.0 SOLAR NOVA SCOTIA SUBMISSION - SNS provided comments regarding the ongoing Distributed Energy Resources Integration - Roadmap (DERIR) work and stakeholder consultation process (M11621). In that proceeding, the - NSEB directed NS Power...

AI summary Solar Nova Scotia (SNS) urges expedited completion of the DERIR process to align with 2026 NSIESO planning, warning delays could exclude DERs from procurement and necessitate costly utility-scale investments. NS Power asserts DERIR outcomes will be timely for the upcoming IRP update, which is expected to begin by late 2025.

s). The currently available modeling work provides an appropriate representation for the current planning environment until the completion of the NSIESO's first IRP. [NS Power Reply Submission, p. 7] The Board shares Synapse's concerns abo...

AI summary The Board acknowledges concerns about NSIESO's IRP modeling, including Mersey hydro rehabilitation, load forecasting, and NS-NB Intertie impacts. It directs comprehensive IRP modeling to address fast-acting generation, firm capacity needs, and policy factors like 'sustainable prosperity.' Solar Nova Scotia's DER comments are referred to M12177, with NS Power to file the DER Integration Roadmap by 2025.

May 28, 2026 Crystal Henwood Clerk of the Board Nova Scotia Energy Board 1601 Lower Water Street, 3rd Floor Halifax, NS B3J 3S3 Re: M12247 – Nova Scotia Power Inc. – 2025 Evergreen IRP Action Plan and Roadmap Update Dear Ms. Henwood: On Ap...

AI summary Nova Scotia Power Inc. (NS Power) submitted its 2025 Evergreen Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) Update to the Nova Scotia Energy Board (NSEB). The NSEB directed NS Power to complete the Effective Load Carrying Capacity (ELCC) study and participate in the Net Zero Atlantic Hybrid Peak study, with updates due by May 31, 2026. Stakeholders including Synapse, Consumer Advocate, and Energy Storage Canada provided comments on the IRP Update.