The Cape Breton Regional Municipality is revisiting discussions with Albert Barbusci and Sydney Harbour Investment Partners (SHIP) to explore opportunities in the offshore wind energy sector.
Previously, SHIP had an exclusive agreement with CBRM for a container terminal project at a greenfield site in Sydney harbour named Novaporte. However, after a lack of progress over ten years, CBRM terminated the exclusivity in January of this year.
Subsequently, the municipality opened the site to potential bidders and engaged a consultant to assess the site’s value and recommend a suitable company for the project. Despite this, only SHIP submitted a bid for the offshore wind project at Sydney harbour.
During a recent municipal meeting, Coun. Steve Parsons proposed that CBRM re-engage in negotiations with SHIP under a non-exclusive agreement. Parsons emphasized the urgency of the situation, with the deadline for expressions of interest in licensing approaching in November.
Parsons expressed confidence in SHIP’s capabilities, mentioning their pre-qualified status with the Canada-Nova Scotia Offshore Energy Regulator (CNSOER) for offshore wind bids. He noted that negotiations with SHIP had been progressing positively before stalling earlier in the year.
The motion to negotiate with SHIP again was met with contention, resulting in a close vote with seven councillors in favor and six against. Mayor Cecil Clarke supported the motion, highlighting the importance of working with a company that has already invested in the project.
While CBRM remains open to bids from other companies, the focus is on advancing the offshore wind project for the benefit of the local community and economy. However, some councillors, including Earlene MacMullin, raised concerns about fairness and equal opportunity for all interested companies in bringing offshore wind power to Cape Breton.