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HomepageOcean Energy News Irving Oil Receives Approval to Conduct Tidal Power Research in the Bay of Fundy - Company will part
Irving Oil Receives Approval to Conduct Tidal Power Research in the Bay of Fundy - Company will part
Monday, 26 May 2008
SAINT JOHN, NB, May 26 /PRNewswire/ - Irving Oil announced today that it has received approval from New Brunswick's Department of Natural Resources to explore the feasibility of tidal power development within the Bay of Fundy. The company will partner with St. Andrews-based Huntsman Marine Science Centre to conduct a two-year research program on 11 potential power generating sites in the Bay of Fundy, including regions extending from Cape Enrage, near Chignecto Bay, down to the Western Passage areas of Passamaquoddy Bay.
During the two-year research period, information on the natural environment, tidal patterns, climatic conditions and behaviour of aquatic life in the selected areas will be collected and studied to determine the suitability for development.
"When we shared the news that we were seriously exploring the possibility of Eider Rock, the broader community was excited but also wanted to know that our company would focus on environmental performance and explore renewable forms of energy," said Kenneth Irving. "It's very early in the development of tidal power, and there's still a lot we don't know, but we wanted to respond to our community's aspirations. The New Brunswick Energy Hub is about supporting Self-Sufficiency with energy projects that perform the best both economically and environmentally. We hope that tidal power becomes a key spoke in the Hub."
"This announcement gives us the platform we need to investigate an energy stream based on a renewable resource that will not only meet the standards of sustainability, but will also provide leadership in the development of ocean energy technology in Canada," said Bill Robertson, Executive Director of Huntsman Marine Science Centre. "We're excited to be partnering with a progressive energy company like Irving Oil, who shares our commitment to long-term sustainability. This is a winning partnership and proposition."
"The world-renowned tides of the Bay of Fundy have long been regarded as a significant source of tidal energy," said Jeff Landry, Manager of Business Development for Irving Oil. "We look forward to working with Huntsman Marine Science Centre to explore the potential of this innovative, alternative source of energy. The Huntsman is a leader in marine education and research, and a great partner."
Each of the 11 study sites measures 25 hectares in size and are located in four regions in the Bay of Fundy, including:
- Head Harbour Passage, southeast of Deer Island - Western Passage, west of Deer Island - Cape Enrage, near Chignecto Bay - Cape Spencer, near Saint John. Earlier this year, Irving Oil submitted its proposal on tidal power generation to the Department of Natural Resources, in response to the government's Request for Proposal on tidal power research.
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