POINT TUPPER: EverWind Fuels is making a significant investment in the future of maritime sustainability, announcing a $50 million project to introduce a new fleet of lower-emission tugboats in the Strait of Canso.
The modernized vessels will enhance infrastructure reliability, support green shipping corridors, and strengthen Nova Scotia’s position as a leader in sustainable maritime operations.
This project represents one of the largest private-sector investments in the Strait of Canso in the last 50 years and is expected to create long-term jobs while boosting the local economy. EverWind will expand its marine team by approximately 15 new employees who will oversee safety and tugboat operations.
The new fleet will be owned locally, replacing the company’s contracted vessels, which were built between 1992 and 2004.
“This investment is a critical step in enabling large-scale green hydrogen and ammonia production with our international partners,” EverWind CEO Trent Vichie said. “By integrating new advanced tugboats into our operations following the strictest IMO emissions standards we’re ensuring safe, efficient, and sustainable maritime logistics that support the international transition to clean energy.”
The state-of-the-art vessels are essential for specialized operations involving the transportation of green hydrogen and ammonia from Point Tupper, which is set to become a regional export hub for clean fuels.
Additionally, the new tugboats will continue to support existing industries operating in the Strait of Canso.
Designed to comply with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) stringent Tier III emissions standards, the tugboats will significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Compared to EverWind’s current fleet, the new vessels will cut nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions by approximately 80 per cent and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by 25 per cent.
EverWind is also working with its maritime partners to further transition its tugboats toward zero carbon emissions as renewable energy projects come online.
Local officials have praised the investment, highlighting its economic and environmental benefits.
“This investment is a significant win for our local communities, creating stable, long-term jobs in the Strait Area and strengthening rural economies,” Richmond County Warden Lois Landry said. “By leveraging the skills and expertise of our local workforce, EverWind is ensuring that the benefits of its green hydrogen and ammonia projects remain right here in our region, supporting families, businesses, and future generations.”
Port Hawkesbury Mayor Brenda Chisholm-Beaton echoed these sentiments.
“The Strait of Canso has long been a hub for industry and innovation, and these new vessels will ensure that tradition continues while paving the way for future clean energy development,” she said. “This project is a key step in building a stronger, more sustainable future for our region, and I’m excited to see the opportunities it will bring for local workers, businesses, and families in our community.”
The new fleet, consisting of a Damen ASD 3212 Tug and two Damen RSD 2513 Tugs, is expected to arrive in the summer of 2025. The vessels, measuring 32 metres and 25 metres in length, will provide greater maneuverability and power for marine operations in the Strait of Canso, a critical hub for global trade.
With this investment, EverWind is reinforcing its commitment to sustainability, economic development, and the long-term prosperity of the Strait Area. As Nova Scotia moves toward a cleaner energy future, these modernized tugboats will play a vital role in shaping the province’s evolving maritime landscape.