Canada, Nova Scotia Sign Deal to Fast-Track Major Projects
Nova Scotia major projects agreement aims to speed infrastructure development
HALIFAX, NOVA SCOTIA — The federal government and the Province of Nova Scotia have signed a new agreement designed to accelerate the approval and construction of major infrastructure projects, marking a significant step in Canada’s broader effort to streamline development and strengthen economic resilience.
Prime Minister Mark Carney and Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston announced the Co-operation Agreement on Environmental and Impact Assessment on March 27, introducing a “one project, one review” model intended to reduce duplication and speed up project timelines.
Streamlining Project Approvals
The agreement establishes a coordinated federal-provincial approach to environmental assessments, allowing governments to rely on either Nova Scotia’s review process or a joint system on a case-by-case basis.
The goal is to eliminate regulatory overlap while maintaining environmental protections and upholding Indigenous rights.
The streamlined process is expected to accelerate the development of key infrastructure, including power generation systems and an integrated transmission grid across the province.
Premier @TimHoustonNS and I want to build big and fast.
We just signed a “one project, one review” agreement to cut red tape and streamline major project approvals in Nova Scotia — to speed up new infrastructure projects, and create more opportunities for Nova Scotians. pic.twitter.com/EYsteufMIL
— Mark Carney (@MarkJCarney) March 27, 2026
Economic Growth and Investment Focus
The agreement is part of Canada’s broader strategy to diversify trade, attract global investment, and build a more resilient economy amid shifting global conditions.
Federal officials say the new framework will help position Nova Scotia — and Canada’s Atlantic region — as a competitive destination for energy and infrastructure investment.
“Today’s agreement between Canada and Nova Scotia enables our governments to build big and build fast, together,” said Prime Minister Carney. “By cutting red tape and streamlining approvals, we will build major infrastructure projects that power our industries, create thousands of high-paying Canadian jobs, and unlock our full potential as a global clean energy superpower.”
Premier Tim Houston said Nova Scotia is ready to meet growing global demand for sustainable and reliable energy.
“With this agreement, Canada and Nova Scotia are standing together to quickly unlock the many benefits of our province’s energy sector, while making our nation more resilient and competitive,” Houston said.
A Broader National Strategy
The Nova Scotia agreement is the fifth of its kind signed by the federal government, following similar deals with Prince Edward Island, Ontario, New Brunswick, and British Columbia.
Ottawa is also working toward agreements with other provinces, including Manitoba and Alberta, as part of a national effort to modernize regulatory processes.
Officials say the initiative aligns with Canada’s push to unlock major infrastructure investments — including projects valued at over $126 billion nationwide — while improving regulatory efficiency.
Balancing Speed and Environmental Protection
Federal ministers emphasized that the agreement is designed to accelerate project timelines without compromising environmental standards.
“This agreement is about reviewing projects faster – while building them right,” said Environment Minister Julie Dabrusin, noting the continued commitment to sustainable development and Indigenous consultation.
The move comes amid growing concern about regulatory complexity in Canada, with a recent Statistics Canada study indicating that regulatory requirements increased by 37 per cent between 2006 and 2021, contributing to slower investment growth.
Looking Ahead
The agreement is expected to play a key role in advancing clean energy development, supporting Canada’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, and strengthening the country’s position in global energy markets.
As Canada continues to pursue major infrastructure projects and economic diversification, the federal government says streamlined regulatory frameworks will be critical to delivering projects faster while maintaining public trust.
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