Aecon Group Inc. secures fabrication contract for Cape Sharp Tidal project

Aecon Group Inc. and Lengkeek Vessel Engineering, two Nova Scotian businesses, have been selected for a $25 million contract by Cape Sharp Tidal project's owner after a competitive tender process. Cape Sharp Tidal is a joint venture between Emera Inc. and OpenHydro.

The Bay of Fundy’s tidal resource is one of the most powerful in the world. Cape Sharp Tidal is seeking to use the initial demonstration array in 2015 as the first phase of a commercial scale project in the Bay of Fundy, which subject to regulatory approvals, will see the development grow to an output of 300MW.

In April 2015, OpenHydro was awarded $6.3 million for the Cape Sharp Tidal project by Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC), a not-for-profit foundation that finances and supports the development of clean technologies. SDTC funding will support OpenHydro in further refining its technology into a product ready for industrial roll-out.

Later this year, the project aims to deliver one of the world’s first tidal arrays, with the deployment and grid connection of two 16-metre turbines in the Bay of Fundy, each capable of generating 2MW of electricity.

Aecon Group Inc. secured the contract for fabrication of turbine components. It will also develop a 1,150 tonne capacity barge for OpenHydro, which will be used to deploy turbines on to the seabed for the Cape Sharp Tidal project, as well as other future tidal array developments.

Lengkeek Vessel Engineering, based in Dartmouth, was awarded the contract for design of the barge.

James Ives, OpenHydro Chief Executive, said:

“The manufacture of a dedicated deployment barge is a major capital investment for OpenHydro that will also support Cape Sharp Tidal as we progress towards larger commercial scale tidal farms. We are committed to the development of a tidal energy industry in Nova Scotia and these contract awards demonstrate the potential of our industry to generate economic growth.”

Chris Huskilson, President and CEO of Emera, said:

“Today’s announcement reinforces Cape Sharp Tidal’s commitment to the province of Nova Scotia and to building a global tidal energy industry in the Bay of Fundy. This project will provide more than just a new source of clean, reliable energy in Nova Scotia; it is contributing to the economic strength of the communities and the province.”

In April, the government of Nova Scotia introduced legislation that provides both clarity and strategic direction for the development of marine renewable energy in the province. Once in place this fall, the Act will ensure projects continue to develop in a way that respects the environment and considers the interests of local communities.

Nova Scotia Energy Minister Michel P. Samson, said:

“Nova Scotia is well positioned to become a leader in the global tidal industry and today’s announcement highlights some of the significant expertise we’re building within the province. I’m pleased that Cape Sharp Tidal has chosen to use two local companies as key suppliers, creating local jobs and positively impacting the Nova Scotia economy.”