ATLANTIC

N.S. gov't issues call for proposals to test tidal power technology

THE CANADIAN PRESS Published Thursday, September 13, 2012 10:57AM ADT

In this Nov. 2009 file photo, fishing boats rest on their hulls at low tide at a wharf in Parrsboro, N.S. in the Bay of Fundy. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/Andrew Vaughan)

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HALIFAX -- The Nova Scotia government is calling for more proposals to test tidal power technology in the Bay of Fundy.

The province is looking for proposals for a fourth developer to join the tidal test program at the Fundy Ocean Research Centre for Energy in the Minas Channel.

Energy Minister Charlie Parker made the announcement today at the Ocean Renewable Energy Group's annual conference in Halifax.

The request for proposals, which are due by the end of March, is open to developers interested in testing one or more devices in an area known for its powerful tides.

Sub-sea cables will transmit power from the four test sites to the province's electricity grid.

The province is hoping the development of tidal power will help lessen its reliance on coal, diversify its energy mix and meet federal greenhouse gas emission reduction regulations.