A Growing Movement Across the Province
A powerful shift is happening across Nova Scotia’s rooftops and fields—more and more communities are turning to the sun. Through the province’s Community Solar Program, new solar gardens are taking shape in Cape Breton, Halifax Regional Municipality, and Annapolis County, providing clean, affordable power to Nova Scotians who can’t install their own panels.
The province launched the program to help remove barriers—like upfront costs or limited roof space—and make solar energy more accessible. And the response has been strong, with communities and organizations stepping forward to lead the way.
Sydney: A Bright Beginning
In 2024, Cape Breton’s first community solar garden began generating power at Pine Tree Park in Sydney. Developed by New Dawn Enterprises, the 1,800-panel system provides enough electricity to power 29 affordable homes and community buildings—transforming Pine Tree Park into Cape Breton’s first net-zero energy and net-zero greenhouse gas emissions community.
“This investment is going to fundamentally change Pine Tree Park,” said Erika Shea, CEO of New Dawn Enterprises. “It will remove all fossil fuels from the property and make energy costs both more affordable and more predictable for our residents.”
Encouraged by that success, plans are underway for a second solar garden in Sydney. The Multicultural Association of Cape Breton is partnering on the project, seeing it as a way to build a more inclusive and sustainable community.
“Community solar gardens reflect the power of collective action—making clean, renewable energy that is more accessible to everyone, including newcomer families,” said Lan Zheng, Association president.
West Petpeswick: Powering Rural HRM
On the province’s eastern shore, a new solar garden is coming to West Petpeswick. AI Renewable and the Chabad Lubavitch Society of Atlantic Canada are partnering on the project, with $440,000 in provincial funding helping to support construction.
“Community solar represents a meaningful step toward responsible environmental stewardship and will help more Nova Scotians access clean, affordable energy,” said Rabbi Mendel Feldman, the Society’s president.
Brooklyn: A Partnership with Potlotek First Nation
In Annapolis County, Potlotek First Nation is helping bring a 4.8-megawatt solar garden to Brooklyn. The province is contributing $960,000 toward the project, which will generate enough electricity to power hundreds of homes.
“Potlotek’s involvement in clean energy is a powerful step towards honouring the land and ensuring a thriving future for generations to come,” said Tahirih Paul, Economic Development Officer at Potlotek First Nation.
Province Support, Community Leadership
The province’s Community Solar Program is part of a larger effort—outlined in Our Climate, Our Future: Nova Scotia’s Climate Change Plan for Clean Growth—to add at least 500 megawatts of new local, renewable energy by 2026, with 50 megawatts specifically from community solar over the next five years.
“We’re honoured to be selected to contribute to Nova Scotia’s community solar initiative,” said Aaron Rotenberg, CEO of AI Renewables. “With these community solar projects, we are transforming the vision of accessible clean energy into a tangible reality—empowering communities through solar power while fostering lasting partnerships grounded in sustainability and shared purpose.”
Across the province, solar gardens are turning possibility into reality—reducing emissions, lowering bills, and sparking pride. These projects are a testament to what’s possible when communities and government work side by side to power a cleaner, more resilient tomorrow. They’re also proof that success is measured not just in megawatts, but in hope, collaboration, and a shared commitment to a brighter future.