Funding, News and Announcements

The Offshore Energy Research Association of Nova Scotia (OERA), the Nova Scotia Department of Energy and Nova Scotia Innovation Corporation (Innovacorp) are partnering to improve techniques for the environmental monitoring of tidal power.

Starting today, OERA is accepting proposals for research into the development of new approaches for measuring the interaction between in-stream tidal devices and the marine environment. A total of $150,000 is being invested towards the initiative with the expectation that one or two projects will receive funding.

“The key to developing a sustainable and successful tidal energy industry in Nova Scotia is understanding how turbines interact with the Bay of Fundy,” says Stephen Dempsey, Executive Director OERA. “This research will not only help us enhance the environmental monitoring of tidal turbines, but it could also lead to the development of new technologies that are developed here and exported abroad.”

Dempsey adds, “As OERA’s Value Proposition into Tidal Energy outlines, there is huge potential for local job creation if Nova Scotia can become a key part of the sector’s supply chain.”

“Nova Scotia is a global leader in tidal energy development, and we remain committed to growing this industry in a responsible way,” said Energy Minister Michel Samson. “The economic potential of this resource is truly incredible as well as its potential to significantly reduce carbon emissions. The sustainable development of this new industry is an important part of our research and development agenda."

The deadline for proposals is January 18, 2017. For more information about research priorities and how to apply please visit www.oera.ca.

The Offshore Energy Research Association of Nova Scotia (OERA) is an independent, not-for-profit organization that funds and facilitates collaborative offshore energy and environmental research.  Their mission is to lead environmental, renewable and geoscience energy research that enables the sustainable development of Nova Scotia’s energy resources through strategic partnerships.  Since its establishment in 2006, the Association has invested over $30 million in research, funded by the Province of Nova Scotia through the Department of Energy.