Bear Head Energy Obtains Approval for Green Hydrogen, Ammonia Project

Nova Scotia is a prime location for the development of the project. Credit: Bear Head Energy.

Bear Head Energy announced that it has secured Environmental Assessment approval from Timothy Halman, Minister of Nova Scotia Environment and Climate Change, for its green hydrogen and ammonia production, storage, and loading facility in Point Tupper, Nova Scotia. The company, a subsidiary of BAES Infrastructure, is permitted for up to 2 GW of hydrogen electrolysers.

At full build-out and peak power inflow, Bear Head could produce up to 350,000 tonnes of hydrogen and two million tonnes of ammonia per year. The project, developed in phases, is expected to commence deliveries of green hydrogen and ammonia by 2028, leveraging Nova Scotia's wind resources, Canadian federal government support, and proximity to key markets.

Paul MacLean, Managing Director of Bear Head Energy, expressed gratitude for the support received from the Governments of Nova Scotia and Canada, First Nations, and local stakeholders. He said, "We believe green hydrogen and ammonia will play a fundamental role in facilitating the global energy transition, and this approval demonstrates that Canada and Nova Scotia are at the forefront of making this a reality."

Jamie Cemm, BAES Infrastructure CEO, thanked the Bear Head management team and the Government of Nova Scotia for their efforts. He added, "Today's Environmental Assessment approval will support the creation of a hub in Canada that can supply key markets across the world, accelerate global energy transition efforts, and provide sustainable long-term industry and employment opportunities for the Strait of Canso region."

The Canadian Government's Clean Hydrogen Investment Tax Credit (ITC) was recently detailed in Budget 2023, including a 40% ITC for clean hydrogen and a 30% ITC for clean technology. Mike Kelloway, Member of Parliament for Cape Breton–Canso, said, "Budget 2023 aims to position Nova Scotia and indeed all of Canada as a global clean energy hub, establishing conditions to develop green projects like Bear Head Energy."

Bear Head Energy is collaborating with Kiewit and io Consulting to design the green hydrogen and ammonia facility. The company has already secured several permits and approvals, including permission to construct its marine terminal and offloading facility.