FORCE Announces New Independent Board Structure and Welcomes Two New Directors
The Fundy Ocean Research Center for Energy (FORCE) is strengthening its role as Canada’s lead tidal energy research facility with a new independent governance structure and the appointment of two new directors: Dr. Jeffrey Taylor and Ross Jefferson.
The new model responds to recommendations from the federal Task Force on Sustainable Tidal Energy, which called for FORCE to advance environmental monitoring science, support collaboration between regulators and the international scientific community, and help establish Canada as a centre of excellence for high flow site research. These changes also align FORCE with Canada’s staged approach for tidal stream development—an adaptive framework that advances projects in phases informed by ongoing environmental data – by better positioning FORCE to provide independent oversight, evidence, and monitoring.
“This strengthened governance model is a foundational shift for FORCE,” says Lindsay Bennett, FORCE’s executive director. “It supports responsible deployment and reinforces FORCE’s role as a transparent facilitator to support and inform developers, regulators, Indigenous Rights Holders, and communities as the sector grows.”
A governance model aligned with provincial and national priorities
FORCE’s Board of Directors will now consist of seven independent members and one provincial government representative, providing oversight to better uphold FORCE’s provincial and federal environmental and regulatory commitments, protect shared infrastructure, and guide future deployments. Other enhancements include:
- A Licensee Agreement that defines how developers access the test area, connect to the grid, and meet operational and environmental requirements
- A Licensee Advisory Committee to ensure developer experience continues to inform site operations, environmental priorities, and long-term planning
“These changes help ensure that the science, coordination, and governance needed for responsible tidal development are firmly in place,” adds Bennett.
Supporting DFO’s staged approach and advancing monitoring science
FORCE continues to contribute to Canada’s staged regulatory pathway. Earlier this year, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) issued a Fisheries Act Authorization to Eauclaire Tidal Ltd. for up to three Orbital O2-X turbines at the FORCE test site – the first project approved under the revised framework.
Through initiatives such as the Ocean Sensor Innovation Platforms (OSIP) project—with partners including Acadia University, the Confederacy of Mainland Mi’kmaq, and the Ocean Tracking Network—FORCE is advancing new tools and methods to better understand fish movement and turbine interactions in high-flow conditions. This science directly informs adaptive management under the staged approach.
Welcoming New Directors
“It feels like a real comeback moment: new technology, new science, new governance, and a new regulatory approach,” says Doug Keefe, FORCE board chair. “With that in mind, we are deeply honoured to welcome Jeffrey’s national research and innovation expertise and draw on Ross’s leadership, governance experience, and strategic intelligence. Both are strong voices for responsible ocean management and bring exactly the perspective we need at this stage. We have an exceptional team around the table, and their contributions will strengthen FORCE’s work in a year of significant scientific and operational demands.”
“FORCE sits at the intersection of ocean innovation, applied research, and clean energy – areas that matter deeply to our students and to Nova Scotia’s future,” said Dr. Jeffrey Taylor. “Joining the board is a chance to help shape a governance model that supports responsible development today while also creating the kinds of opportunities our graduates will be looking for as the sector grows. It’s meaningful work; I’m grateful to contribute.”
“It’s a genuine honour to join FORCE at this moment of momentum and possibility,” said Ross Jefferson. “The Bay of Fundy is one of the world’s great natural treasures, and tidal energy offers a rare chance to protect what we value while building a cleaner, more resilient future for coastal communities. I’m looking forward to supporting FORCE’s collaborative, science-based approach as the sector moves forward.”
Dr. Jeffrey Taylor is the Associate Vice-President of Research, Innovation, and Workforce Development at Nova Scotia Community College. He oversees entrepreneurship, applied research, industry engagement, continuing education, and strategic partnerships across all NSCC campuses. He serves on the Board of Directors of the Digital Research Alliance of Canada, chairs the National Research Advisory Council, and is a member of the Council of Canadian Academies’ Expert Panel on the State of Science, Technology, and Innovation in Canada. Dr. Taylor holds a Ph.D. in Physics from the University of Toronto and is a graduate of the National Science Foundation’s Leadership Collaboratory executive program.
Ross Jefferson is President and CEO of Discover Halifax, where he leads the regional destination marketing organization responsible for the growth and long-term sustainability of Halifax’s tourism economy. He has previously served on several national and regional boards, including the Canadian Automobile Association of Canada, Destination Marketing Association of Canada, and Fundy Linen. Ross holds an Executive MBA from the Ivey School of Business at Western University and the ICD.D designation from the Institute of Corporate Directors.
About FORCE
The Fundy Ocean Research Center for Energy (FORCE) is Canada’s lead facility for tidal stream energy research, operating a grid-connected test site in the Bay of Fundy—home to the highest tides in the world. In partnership with industry, government, Indigenous organizations, and academia, FORCE supports technology deployment, research and science to advance responsible tidal energy development.
More at fundyforce.ca