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gov.ns.ca Government of Nova Scotia Nova Scotia, Canada
 
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Nova Scotia Department of Energy - What We Do

Divsion Summaries

To learn more about our resources and projects, take a look at our fact sheet.

Business & Technology

The Business and Technology Division promotes investment in the energy-related capabilities of Nova Scotia.

We provide opportunities for local companies to meet potential joint venture partners and participate in investment missions abroad.

We strive to maximize business opportunities for local suppliers of goods and services.

We identify areas where labour is in high demand and areas where there may be skill shortages.

At the same time, we develop strategic approaches and undertake partnerships in training projects and initiatives.

Communications and Public Education

Energy use and development are important to all Nova Scotians.

The Communications Division develops public information programs to help create greater public understanding around issues such as the exploration and development of oil and natural gas, electricity, and renewable energy.

We provide public education initiatives, including video, print resources, and training for educators; an extensive website offering a library of publications and other energy-related information; and develop innovative communication approaches to educate Nova Scotians on energy issues.

Energy Markets

The Energy Markets Division has responsibility for technical and policy advice to the Nova Scotia Government regarding electricity; renewable energy; refined petroleum products and biofuels; liquefied natural gas; and natural gas transmission, distribution and use.

We develop and implement policies, programs, and assist in the development of specific energy projects which are of general public interest.

The division provides policy support to departments which have complementary objectives, such as the climate change division of the Nova Scotia Department of Environment, the Office of Economic Development and the Department of Natural Resources.

Resource Assessment

This Division is responsible for the development of policy, legislation, and regulations for the exploration and development of the Province's offshore and onshore petroleum resources.

We also administer petroleum rights and coordinate the regulation of exploration activity onshore.

The Canada-Nova Scotia Offshore Petroleum Board regulates day-to-day offshore petroleum activity; however, the Division actively promotes both Nova Scotia's onshore and offshore petroleum potential.

Energy Fiscal Affairs

The Energy Fiscal Affairs division forecasts and monitors the financial results and fiscal implications of petroleum exploration and development; administers, audits and assesses royalties from petroleum projects; undertakes fiscal policy research and analysis and provides related recommendations as well as the administration of the royalty regulations and agreements.

Strategic Policy, Planning & Services

The division is responsible for the coordination of energy policies, strategies and plans.

It gathers information on Nova Scotia and other jurisdictions' relevant experiences, policies and activities.

It also analyzes the general business climate for energy investments, focusing on their implications for public policy objectives in the Nova Scotia energy sector.

It is also responsible for the coordination of general regulatory development and corporate initiatives such as Better Regulation.

Staff work closely with the federal government and other jurisdictions, industry and key stakeholders to develop an efficient and effective regulatory regime and policies for offshore and onshore energy activities.