The Atlantic Offshore Wind Coalition envisions a successful offshore wind industry in Atlantic Canada that is developed responsibly and equitably, where Indigenous rights are fully respected, communities and stakeholders are meaningfully engaged, and the ocean ecosystem is protected for future generations.
We envision:
Electricity from offshore wind is used where it delivers greatest emissions reductions and supports a transition from oil and gas.
Project decisions use transparent, science-based, participatory processes that respect rights-holders and protect ocean ecosystems.
Governments provide consistent support through clear policies, stable targets, and coordinated offshore wind planning.
Coastal communities, Indigenous rights-holders, and ocean users are meaningfully engaged and help shape decisions.
Offshore wind delivers fair benefits, including community frameworks, respectful agreements, and public or shared ownership opportunities.
Atlantic Canadians increasingly experience offshore wind benefits and see clean energy as central to their future.
Electricity from offshore wind is used where it will result in the highest level of decarbonisation.
The process for siting and approving projects is transparent, participatory, science-based, and balances industry development with ocean protection.
There is an increase in the number of Atlantic Canadians who experience and recognize the environmental and economic benefits of offshore wind.
Governments maintain consistent support for offshore wind projects and meet reasonable production targets.
Atlantic Canadians see their economic well-being tied to renewable energy development and become voices for decarbonisation in the Canadian federation.
Governments and industry adopt best practices in public and stakeholder engagement, including with the fishing industry, shipping, other ocean users, and environmental organizations.
Governments and industry recognize and support ocean protection, community benefit frameworks, and democratised or public ownership.
The development of offshore wind is coupled with the phase-out of fossil fuel production.
Offshore wind development is smart and undertaken in a way that respects rights-holders and ensures good process.
Models of community benefit in offshore wind development are explored. Communities, including Indigenous rights-holders, are meaningfully consulted and given opportunities to make recommendations.
Negotiated royalty and benefits agreements between governments and industry respect rights-holders and are acceptable to Atlantic Canadians.