Socioeconomics Research

Featured Research Projects

Socioeconomics Scoping Study for Tidal Power in Nova Scotia

Updated February 2012

Leads - Shelley MacDougall, John Colton, FERN-SE Subcommittee

The Fundy Energy Research Network (FERN) Socio-Economic Scoping Study provides a state-of-knowledge comprehensive review of the socio-economic issues associated with tidal in-stream energy conversion (TISEC). Highlighted in this report are international, national and provincial level research, regulatory frameworks and projects.

The purpose of this scoping study is to highlight many of the socio-economic issues related to TISEC development and to discuss best practices, case studies and tools that have been developed to facilitate positive socio-economic benefits and community development. The report provides an overview of research, and best practices developed in Canada and abroad in relation to TISEC developments and other renewable energy technologies.  Four specific components of TISEC development are addressed: 2.0 - Technology, Supply Chain and Workforce Development; 3.0- Policy, Assessment and Stakeholder Processes; 4.0- Financing and Funding; and 5.0-Community Benefits and Economic Development, which highlights socio-economic concerns in the development of TISEC but also other renewable energy technologies.

Call for Socioeconomics Research on Tidal Energy in the Bay of Fundy

Posted November 2011

Shelley L. MacDougall, Acadia Tidal Energy Institute 

The Bay of Fundy is rich source of tidal energy. Nova Scotia is turning its attention to this resource to reduce its reliance on coal and for economic development. Socioeconomic research is needed to help develop this nascent industry. The potential goes beyond green energy: with the involvement of universities, development of world-class expertise can be achieved.

Click here for full article

Contribution of Tidal Power to Developing Nations

Posted June 2011

Andrew Sullivan, University of Cambridge

See FERN Newsletter, Spring 2011, Issue 1 for an article on this project