SolarBank Corporation to Develop 6.9 MW Community Solar Project in Nova Scotia

SolarBank Corporation has announced its latest initiative to develop a 6.9 megawatt community solar project in Brooklyn, Nova Scotia. This project represents a significant milestone as part of Canada's first Community Solar Program and is expected to generate enough clean energy to power approximately 900 homes. The development contributes substantially to Nova Scotia's ambitious targets of achieving 80% renewable energy by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2035, marking an important advancement in the province's renewable energy infrastructure.

The Brooklyn solar project is owned by AI Renewable Fund, which has secured two of the three contracts awarded under the Community Solar Program to date. SolarBank will serve as both developer and builder for the project, bringing its extensive experience in community solar development from the United States to the Canadian market. This strategic approach leverages proven methodologies and expertise to ensure project success while adapting to local regulatory and environmental conditions. The construction timeline is scheduled to begin in Spring 2026 with completion expected by Summer 2026, representing a relatively rapid implementation schedule for renewable energy infrastructure of this scale.

The total development cost for the 6.9 megawatt project is estimated at $13.9 million, reflecting the significant investment required for large-scale renewable energy infrastructure. This financial commitment demonstrates the growing viability and economic attractiveness of community solar projects in the Canadian energy market. The project's development through the Community Solar Program model allows multiple community members to benefit from solar energy without requiring individual rooftop installations, making renewable energy accessible to a broader demographic including renters and those with unsuitable roofs for solar panels.

This initiative underscores SolarBank's commitment to advancing renewable energy solutions while highlighting the critical role of community solar programs in achieving environmental sustainability goals. By providing clean, renewable energy to hundreds of homes, the project represents a tangible step forward in climate change mitigation and the transition toward a greener economy. The successful implementation of this project could serve as a model for similar community solar developments across Canada, potentially accelerating the country's transition to renewable energy sources. Furthermore, it showcases the potential for effective public and private sector collaboration in meeting renewable energy targets and fostering sustainable development practices that balance environmental responsibility with economic viability.