New opportunities for tidal projects at FORCE
The province has launched a competitive process to bring new tidal stream projects into the water at FORCE.
The procurement administrator Power Advisory LLC, appointed by the Province, is looking for projects between 5 and 8 megawatts (MW). Companies can apply to use Berth B, Berth E, or both. The total capacity awarded across both sites won’t exceed 13 MW. The draft Call for Applications is now open for comment, with a final version expected soon. Developers can register at nstidalprocurement2025.com.
“With many companies already expressing interest, it’s encouraging to see renewed momentum in the tidal sector,” says FORCE executive director Lindsay Bennett. “We’re here to support the next wave of projects—not only with our electrical facility, but by continuing to work with partners to deliver the science this sector needs.”
FORCE offers projects a purpose-built facility with the infrastructure needed to bring renewable energy on to the grid—including subsea cables, a shore-based substation, and overhead transmission lines to bring tidal-generated electricity to homes and businesses across the province. This allows developers to focus on their technology deployment.
“Companies from around the world continue to want to work in Nova Scotia,” adds Bennett. “We’re geared up to support planning, deploying, and monitoring tidal energy devices in this powerful environment.”
With Canada committed to reaching net zero emissions by 2050, predictable, renewable sources like tidal energy will become part of the solution. As technology, science, and regulation continue to evolve, Nova Scotia’s tides could play a bigger role.
“Fighting climate change will take more solutions than just wind and solar, and we’re grateful that the Province and Government of Canada recognize the important potential in the highest tides in the world,” says Bennett. “Getting this right means working closely with not just government, but also the research community, Mi’kmaw organizations, stakeholders and industry to build a clear picture of how this technology interacts with the marine environment, and to help projects succeed.”
Quick facts
- First tidal project proposed by Acadia University in 1915
- Six tidal stream energy devices have been built in Nova Scotia so far
- Minas Passage witnesses 14 billion tonnes of water on every tide cycle, moving up to 5 meters/second
- This 13 MW call would generate enough power for about 6,500 homes
- Site activity can be viewed from the public visitor centre, open from May to October