Fast-Acting Electricity Generation

IESO Nova Scotia has initiated its first procurement process, seeking to secure at least 300 megawatts of reliable natural gas generation capacity for the province.

While it might seem surprising to start with natural gas when moving to a cleaner electricity system, it is the necessary next step in the plan to achieve Nova Scotia’s 80% renewables goal. 

Having a flexible and dependable resource like natural gas provides a critical foundation of electricity that enables the new system to deliver reliable power to Nova Scotians, even in extended cold snaps or periods where wind isn’t sufficient to meet the province’s demand.   

Importantly, these new facilities are not designed to run all the time, but instead to generate electricity quickly when we need them—and power down when we don’t. These facilities will also have the ability to switch to renewable fuels such as hydrogen as they become economically available. They will play a critical role alongside batteries and other technologies to provide Nova Scotia with a reliable system in the most cost-effective way.

In October 2025, IESO Nova Scotia issued a Request for Expressions of Interest for the construction and operation of one or two 300 megawatt fast-acting natural gas-fired facilities in Pictou County. 

This added capacity, identified in the Province of Nova Scotia’s Clean Power Plan and the most recent IRP completed by Nova Scotia Power, is critical to the province’s ability to continue to meet growing electricity demand, transition away from coal, significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and achieve Nova Scotia’s renewable energy goals.

IESO Nova Scotia received Expressions of Interest from several proponents during the fall 2025 call. We thank the interested companies for their submissions, and for their valuable feedback.

The draft Request for Proposals (RFP) and Tolling Agreement for the 300 megawatt fast-acting natural gas generating facilities is now available for proponent review and comment. 

Draft documents and an information webinar can be found on our webpage at this link:   Procurement - IESO Nova Scotia