Assessment of the Potential of Tidal Power from Minas Passage and Minas Basin

Geophysics/Hydrodynamics: Karsten, R., D. Greenburg, and M. Tarbotton, (2011)

Final Report to OEER/OETR

Download: 194.pdf

This research project was undertaken to accurately estimate the power potential of the tides and tidal currents in the Minas Basin and Minas Channel regions of the Bay of Fundy. Its goal was to make a power estimate that is both attainable and sustainable; that is, an assessment based on available turbine technology that includes an estimate of the impact on the tidal range and currents. The results of the theoretical analysis and hydrodynamic modelling are producing critical information for many stakeholders. For developers, it will provide realistic power estimates that will determine if commercial scale turbine farms are financially viable. For resource users, it will provide estimates of the changes to the physical environment such power extraction will produce so that they can determine how their livelihood will be affected. For researchers, it will provide the baseline changes to tidal range and currents that will be necessary to examine changes in sediment, impacts on marine life, and other concerns

Keywords: Minas Basin, resource assessment