Prequalification has beguin for Canada's first offshore wind energy license auction
The initiatives were launched on October 16 by the Canada-Nova Scotia Offshore Energy Regulator (CNSOER), an independent joint agency established by the governments of Canada and Nova Scotia. Both the prequalification round and the Call for Information will remain open for 90 days. The move follows a Strategic Direction issued in September by both governments and the earlier designation of four Wind Energy Areas in July. Three of these areas are located south of Nova Scotia’s eastern mainland, while the fourth lies east of Cape Breton Island.
In their strategic guidance, the governments described the move as a “pivotal moment” for Canada’s clean energy development. They noted that the launch of the prequalification process would represent a historic milestone for both Canada and Nova Scotia. The governments emphasized the strong potential for offshore wind, setting an initial goal of 3,000 megawatts (MW) and expressing an ambition to expand to 5,000 MW in the near term. The regulator was instructed to assess the feasibility of this target based on the results of the prequalification process and the Call for Information. “There is enormous potential for offshore wind in Canada,” the governments said, adding that they would welcome a recommendation for “an even more ambitious call for bids” if warranted by early findings.
The prequalification process aims to identify companies with the financial strength and technical capacity to participate in the offshore wind projects. The regulator has been instructed to ensure the requirements are not overly restrictive, as a more comprehensive evaluation of qualifications will be conducted during the formal bidding phase.
Simultaneously, CNSOER is seeking feedback from a wide range of stakeholders, including Indigenous groups, rights holders, the fishing industry, local communities, government entities, and the public. They are invited to comment on evaluation criteria for the upcoming Call for Bids, as well as the draft terms and conditions for future offshore wind licenses.
Once the prequalification stage concludes, the approved companies will be eligible to participate in the first Call for Bids for offshore wind development. Although an exact timeline for the bidding phase has not yet been set, submissions for the current stage are due by January 13, 2026.
This initiative represents a significant step in Canada’s transition toward renewable energy, as the country works to diversify its energy portfolio and develop a sustainable offshore wind industry. The process in Nova Scotia could establish a framework for future offshore wind development across Canada’s coastal regions.
