Amendments Strengthen Marine Renewable-energy Legislation

Government will introduce changes to strengthen the Marine Renewable-energy Act.

Legislation was introduced in April to ensure safe and responsible development of the marine renewable-energy industry and the resource. The changes are the result of consultations with communities, environmental groups, academia, industry and government over the summer on the bill's content and direction.

"Tidal energy holds great potential as a new source of clean, renewable power and as an export-ready industry," said Energy Minister Michel Samson. "We are now advancing a stronger piece of legislation that reflects a government priority while addressing the concerns and interests of stakeholders."

The changes will strengthen the requirement to collect environmental information and will outline how this information will be shared to enhance public confidence.

The changes will also advance the creation of three new marine renewable-electricity areas for small-scale tidal energy development. The three additional areas cover Fundy Tidal Inc.'s approved community feed-in tariff projects in the Digby Gut, Grand Passage, and Petit Passage.

Several administrative changes that clarify roles and responsibilities within government are also included in the amendments.

For more information on marine renewable energy in Nova Scotia, visit energy.novascotia.ca/renewables.