LE3 .A278 2023

2023

Colton, John

Acadia University

Bachelor of Community Development

Honours

Environmental and Sustainability Studies

Environmental & Sustainability Studies

Nova Scotia’s marine renewable energy (MRE) sector can contribute to provincial goals for carbon neutrality. With this, tidal energy has been an interest to industry stakeholders for over two decades, yet general momentum for the industry has shifted. Recent studies suggest a focus on scalable tidal energy (i.e., small-scale) development in the province. This thesis explores the considerations of developing tidal energy in Southwest Nova Scotia with an emphasis on small-scale tidal devices. Using a comprehensive literature review and in-depth semi-structured interviews with stakeholders from different parts of Nova Scotia’s energy industry, key issues and challenges were explored. Results underline five main themes that affect industry potential, which include; cost and financing, technology, policy, energy distribution, and community engagement. These results support a discussion around the value of small-scale technology, regulatory pathways, industry collaboration, and using global best practices to accelerate tidal energy industry goals in Nova Scotia.

The author retains copyright in this thesis. Any substantial copying or any other actions that exceed fair dealing or other exceptions in the Copyright Act require the permission of the author.

https://scholar.acadiau.ca/islandora/object/theses:3999