Framework for Environmental Risk Assessment and Decision Making for Tidal Energy Development in Canada

Lead: Acadia Centre For Estuarine Research

Partners: BIO, Acadia University, Dalhousie University

Funding: Nova Scotia Department of Energy, OERA & DFO

Project Duration: 2012

In-stream tidal energy initiatives are rapidly developing in Nova Scotia, but there remains a high degree of uncertainty regarding the nature and extent (in space and time) of environmental implications of energy harvesting activities. This report outlines a science-based environmental risk assessment and decision-making framework for the developing in-stream tidal energy industry. It lays out a set of practical criteria and related risk indictors for consideration when planning and reviewing projects. This guidance document offers an approach that would help facilitate a consistent, objective and efficient environmental review, regulatory and follow-up process for the tidal energy industry in Canada.