The proposed Eigg Mountain wind project in Antigonish County has received environmental assessment approval from the Nova Scotia government, despite strong warnings from conservationists about risks to mainland moose habitat.
Developed by Eigg Mountain Wind Inc., a Renewable Energy Systems Canada company, the 22-turbine, 154-megawatt project is expected to begin construction in late 2026 and enter service in 2028. It will generate enough electricity to power about 49,000 homes, cut greenhouse gas emissions by roughly 271,000 tonnes annually, and deliver approximately $1.3 million in annual municipal tax revenue. Construction is expected to create up to 250 jobs, with a smaller workforce during its 35-year operating life.
The approval includes 57 conditions aimed at protecting environmental and human health, including limits on operational noise, requirements for wetland and watercourse permits, and mitigation measures for species at risk. The project is also part of Nova Scotia’s Green Choice Program to expand renewable energy and stabilize power rates.
However, the Moose Conservation Association of Nova Scotia (MCANS) argues the project is located in a core mainland moose habitat area identified in the province’s 2021 recovery plan and could undermine efforts to rebuild the population.
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The group warns the development would fragment and degrade critical habitat, particularly wetlands and old-growth forests at the centre of the project area that are essential to moose survival. It says turbine placement and associated infrastructure such as roads, substations and transmission lines, effectively surround these sensitive areas rather than avoiding them.
MCANS also highlights risks from increased traffic, noise, lighting and long-term human activity, which it says could alter moose behaviour, force displacement, and increase mortality. The group notes that even the environmental assessment acknowledges potential impacts such as habitat loss, fragmentation and wildlife avoidance.
It further disputes the proponent’s wildlife data, arguing that moose use of the area was underestimated. While the assessment recorded limited observations, MCANS reports significantly higher sightings using fewer resources, suggesting the habitat is more heavily used than indicated.
The association also raises concerns about cumulative impacts, pointing to nearby and proposed wind projects and existing infrastructure like the Trans-Canada Highway, which already restricts wildlife movement. Moose were identified as facing the highest level of cumulative impact among species assessed.
Given the sensitivity of the area — interwoven with parts of the Eigg Mountain–James River Wilderness Area — MCANS argues the site should be protected rather than developed, warning the project could effectively signal the abandonment of the province’s moose recovery goals.
Despite these concerns, the province concluded the project can proceed with mitigation measures in place.
