Nova Scotia, France team up for tidal research

 
The Offshore Energy Research Association of Nova Scotia (OERA) and France Energies Marines (FEM) have signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on research projects to improve technologies and applications for tidal energy in the Bay of Fundy and off the coast of France.

The MoU focuses on areas that will contribute to a better understanding of environmental and socio-economic conditions for marine renewable energy development, associated technology systems, and ways to reduce the cost of turbine installation.

Nova Scotia Energy Minister, Michel Samson, said: “Combining resources and research expertise from both sides of the Atlantic will advance our leadership in tidal energy development to the benefit of Nova Scotians and all Canadians. This partnership will increase the value of every research dollar and create more opportunities for local companies to grow.”

Yann-Hervé De Roeck, General Director at FEM, added: “Reducing GHG emissions by developing renewable energy sources has global benefits, so it’s important that different jurisdictions work together to develop the industry. Through this collaboration we hope to reduce the costs of harnessing tidal power to eventually make it more competitive with other forms of energy.”

Through strategic partnerships with academia, government, and industry, OERA and FEM lead research efforts that enable the sustainable development of energy resources, and bring them closer to market.