Wedoany.com Report-Apr. 15, Nova Scotia is advancing its tidal energy development by initiating a procurement process for two available berths at the Fundy Ocean Research Centre for Energy (FORCE) in the Minas Passage. The province has engaged Power Advisory to oversee the process, which is set to commence in May.
The two berths became available following the withdrawal of DP Energy subsidiaries from the site. Currently, Eauclaire Tidal Limited Partnership and Reconcept Group occupy two other berths at FORCE. A fifth berth remains unavailable as the Department of Energy addresses an abandoned OpenHydro turbine.
Selected applicants will receive licences and power purchase agreements with Nova Scotia Power. They must also secure separate agreements with FORCE to utilize the testing facility. Only companies demonstrating strong technical and financial capabilities to build, operate, and decommission tidal energy projects will qualify for participation.
The Nova Scotia government emphasized the region’s unique potential, stating: “Nova Scotia has the highest tides in the world and there is great potential to harness them to generate clean electricity, create more green jobs and attract more investment.”
Power Advisory, which has previously managed similar procurement processes for the province, will ensure a rigorous selection process. The initiative aligns with Nova Scotia’s commitment to sustainable energy, leveraging the powerful tides of the Minas Passage to produce renewable electricity.
The procurement process aims to attract experienced developers to advance tidal energy technology, contributing to the province’s clean energy goals. Successful projects are expected to generate environmentally friendly power, support local employment, and draw investment to the region.
By prioritizing companies with proven expertise, Nova Scotia seeks to ensure the reliability and longevity of the tidal projects at FORCE. The development of these berths will further establish the province as a leader in tidal energy innovation, harnessing natural resources to meet growing energy demands sustainably.
