Tidal energy major Nova Innovation has landed its largest project to date – it has received a permit to develop a 1.5 MW tidal array in Petit Passage, in the Bay of Fundy area of Nova Scotia. The Bay of Fundy is well known as the site of the world’s largest tidal range.
To take up the project Nova Innovation has expanded its operations in North America and expects to start work within months. This will consist of a phased approach, starting with a single turbine in 2020, then three phases of 0.5 MW will eventually see 15 new tidal stream turbines installed on the seabed by 2023.
Simon Forrest, Chief Executive of Nova Innovation, said: “At five times the size of our array in Shetland, which is the first of its kind in the world, this project is a [huge] step forward for Nova Innovation and the sector – propelling Nova Scotia to a leading position in tidal energy. The momentum building behind tidal energy is demonstrated by the astonishing response to Nova Innovation’s ongoing crowdfunding campaign, which has so far seen more than 1000 people invest to join our mission.”
The Nova Scotian government is putting its weight behind tidal power, undertaking to pay Nova Innovation 50 cents per kilowatt hour of output from the 15 new turbines, recognising the costs of developing a new energy technology. The hope is that this long-term approach will enable Canada to become the global hub of the sector, establish a highly skilled supply chain, help regenerate coastal communities and capitalise on the high-quality jobs being created by the industry.
Derek Mombourquette, Nova Scotia Energy and Mines minister said: “Nova Scotia’s leadership in the development of clean, renewable tidal energy continues to attract new businesses and new investment to our shores. These projects are growing our green economy, creating jobs in rural areas of the province and they have tremendous potential to help in our fight against climate change.”
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