Article
Imaginative capital
Making power moves to fuel the future
Let’s face it. Sometimes, it takes more than traditional capital to drive the change we need. As Canada continues its journey to net-zero emissions, the way we allocate our energy and resources need to move with the winds of change. So how can a sustainable energy project access the funding, carbon credits, and capital needed to make sure the idea gets off the ground? A bit of imagination and a lot of elbow-grease.
How fruitful could an investment in a greener tomorrow be?
At Deloitte, we see work with purpose as fundamental to our organization. When EverWind Fuels approached us to help them develop a large-scale clean hydrogen plant in Nova Scotia, we recognized the chance to make a real impact. This project wasn't just about reaching net-zero targets and boosting the Canadian economy; it was about building a future of more sustainable communities.
Entrepreneurs today are seeking more opportunities that look beyond financial return, especially in addressing environmental challenges. EverWind Fuels had the vision—reducing carbon emissions and transforming our economy without compromising environmental or social equity. The challenge? Needing the know-how to secure the buy-in and the private and public funding.
But let's zoom out.
How does work like this match our purpose to make an impact that matters?
We talked to Rob Jeffery, one of Deloitte Canada’s partners, to shed some light on this question.
"Investment tax credits have been an important government policy tool to accelerate the development of a new industry and were crucial for a multibillion-dollar capital project in the clean energy space. The details of the investment tax credits—the availability of them, how you make a legal structure that can ensure these tax credits are used to their intended outcomes—is crucial to the overall investment decision. That’s where Deloitte can add value."
“Part of the work we did on this project included an economic impact study to really express how the surrounding community, and Canada as a whole, might benefit from this transformational investment. If you’re from rural Nova Scotia, you’ve seen many jobs leave your area. So, we looked beyond GDP, to job creation, community development, labour conditions, and potential training programs to develop a local workforce where all members can thrive.”
Our work together not only boosted financial viability for communities in Eastern Canada, but also ensured Indigenous value holders could be full equity players, supporting social, economic, and environmental reconciliation. By making the clean energy transition smooth and supportive, we're building stronger communities and long-term economic resilience for everyone.
At Deloitte, we believe dollars are best spent investing in a prosperous, equitable future.
Imaginative capital means investing to guide Canada toward a brighter tomorrow.
“Working with EverWind Fuels allowed entrepreneurs to see not only a marketing opportunity, but a broader societal benefit. And in this case, it’s really the chance to help transform our energy economy right here in Nova Scotia.”
“When I look at everyone's approach to collaboration, I think this is a great model of how to work with communities quickly and effectively. The willingness to take on risk, but still do it in a respectful way that helps advance and bring the community together, is something to be admired."
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Big questions demand big solutions. Join us as we unpack some of Canada's biggest challenges on Full Circle, our new podcast that dives deep into the issues shaping our future. With insights from experts, innovators, and people with perspective, Full Circle goes beyond surface-level discussions to explore ideas that challenge the status quo. Listen to a no-holds-barred conversation on everything from the everyday to the extraordinary and get a head start on bringing the conversation Full Circle.
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