Simply Blue Group chooses Nova Scotia for Sustainable Aviation Fuel Project

Ireland-based Simply Blue Group has chosen Goldboro, Nova Scotia for its first expansion into Canada. As a leader in clean energy, the company is developing a renewable energy park (REP) that will harness renewable electricity generated from Simply Blue Group’s solar and wind farms, alongside Nova Scotia’s sustainable biomass and water resources, to produce sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

Simply Blue Group’s construction of the Renewable Energy Park is set to begin in 2026, with full operations expected by 2029.  In its first phase, the project is estimated to produce 150,000 tonnes of SAF per year, a figure equivalent to offsetting the emissions of several hundred thousand vehicles per year. The transportation sector accounts for about 20% of global greenhouse gas emissions, and Canada itself consumes over six million tonnes of conventional jet fuel per year. The development of SAF and renewable methanol is key to advancing the goal of reducing emissions at home and around the world, helping combat climate change and bolstering Canada as a leader in the global shift towards decarbonization.

‘’We at Invest in Canada are thrilled to support Simply Blue Group in establishing this project to accelerate the development of sustainable fuels and support the green hydrogen sector in Canada. Tapping into the province’s existing resources and enormous potential, the REP is poised to innovate and create new opportunities in this vital industry.”

— Laurel Broten, CEO of Invest in Canada

For the province of Nova Scotia, and the community of Goldboro specifically, this investment will enable the communities to play an important role in the energy transition. By establishing an operation here, Simply Blue Group’s presence and commitment to producing sustainable fuels from biomass will promote local industries, generate jobs, and contribute to a resilient economic future for Nova Scotia. 

Simply Blue Group is working with the local forestry industry to provide a stable, long-term market for residual biomass from woodlot owners and forestry professionals. This initiative not only optimizes an underutilized resource but also adds significant value to the province's economy.

‘’The core of our business is investing in local communities and growing sustainable businesses and industries.’’, says Simply Blue Group CEO, Hugh Kelly. ‘’We are actively building relationships with Mi’kmaq communities to explore collaborative opportunities that align with their interests and priorities. Together, we envision a sustainable approach that benefits both the environment and the local economy for years to come’’. 

At Invest in Canada, we seek global companies that not only invest, but also put down roots in the communities. To support Simply Blue Group’s vision and projects, we are collaborating with partners such as Invest Nova Scotia, and look forward to continuing to work with our government partners at all levels to carry this project to completion. Together, we aim to bring dynamic global companies to Canada, as the country takes a leading role in the global transition to net-zero.  

‘’We have a complex, vertically integrated project. This is also our first project in Canada. When we began trying to establish this project, we worked together with Invest in Canada and Invest Nova Scotia - they helped us clearly articulate the configuration, business plan and benefits of our project to the right people at both the federal and provincial government levels.’’

— Hugh Kelly, CEO & Co Founder Simply Blue Group