Funding, News and Announcements

November 28, 2017

Halifax, NS – The Offshore Energy Research Association of Nova Scotia (OERA) and the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding that will jointly fund marine energy research projects in Nova Scotia.  These projects will support academic research carried out in collaboration with Canadian companies over the next three years.

Through the OERA-NSERC Collaborative Research & Development (CRD) and Applied Research & Development (ARD) grants, innovative new projects will provide companies that operate in Canada access to the unique knowledge, expertise and educational resources available in Nova Scotia’s universities.  This initiative enhances the strong connections already established between energy researchers and industry scientists and engineers, and supports the networked research community that has emerged at the intersection of these two organization’s mandates.

OERA, in collaboration with NSERC, will provide administrative support for the delivery of the OERA-CRD Program initiative. This collaboration is expected to result in industrial and economic benefits for Canada, as well as the generation of new scientific knowledge and the training of highly qualified personnel.  Applicants will be asked to demonstrate project alignment with industry needs and development opportunities, as well as the potential for economic benefits in Nova Scotia.

“Combining resources and research expertise will advance our leadership in marine energy R&D to the benefit of Nova Scotians and all Canadians. This partnership will increase the value of every research dollar and create more opportunities for Canadian companies and researchers to grow” said OERA Executive Director, Stephen Dempsey.

“NSERC’s collaborative R&D programs support academic-industry partnerships that de-risk R&D and help launch the next generation of research talent”, said Dr. Marc Fortin, Vice-President, Research Partnerships, NSERC. We are delighted to partner with the OERA to enable the application of leading edge knowledge and expertise in marine energy research that will help Canadian businesses to develop, innovate, and create value for Nova Scotia”.

OERA is an independent, not-for-profit organization that funds and facilitates collaborative offshore energy and environmental research and development including the examination of renewable energy resources and their interaction with the marine environment. Our modest contribution to this research call underlines our long-term commitment to the sustainable development of Nova Scotia’s offshore energy resources.

Media Contacts:
Stephen Dempsey
Executive Director, Offshore Energy Research Association
Tel: 902-237-6282
Email: sdempsey@oera.ca