Terms of Reference

Terms of Reference for a National Advisory Workshop on Renewable Energy from Currents and Waves

April 21 - 22, 2009

Bedford Institute of Oceanography
Dartmouth, Nova Scotia

Chairperson: Tana Worcester

Background

New technologies for the extraction of energy from waves and ocean currents are being developed at a rapid rate, and there are efforts around the world aimed at capitalizing on the relatively abundant energy of the oceans. Canada, in particular, has extensive potential for renewable energy development on all three coasts, especially from tidal currents and ocean waves. Because of the high potential for application in Canadian waters, it is important to establish effective policies to enable the rapid assessment of tidal stream technologies, particularly to evaluate their environmental implications. Although most of the existing tidal stream devices have been designed outside of Canada, some are of Canadian design; in addition, several Canadian companies have established licensing arrangements with some of the more advanced designs. There exist, therefore, several opportunities for innovation and application in Canada that would contribute to the challenge of increasing the contribution of renewable energy sources, diminishing greenhouse gas emissions, and establishing a viable Canadian industry in renewable marine energy.

The background paper addresses the following questions:

1. What is the state of information available on the known impacts of these technologies?
2. What forms of mitigation measures have been applied to these technologies and how effective have they proven to be?  Are they applicable in the Canadian context?

Workshop Objectives

The objectives of this meeting will be to bring together scientific experts and DFO Client Sectors to::

1. Determine if  the background paper adequately addresses the questions listed above;
   1. Identify what are the key gaps in information;

2. Identify major impediments to tidal/current/wave energy development if any;
   1. Understanding impacts on SARA species;

3. Verify if there is currently enough information to structure codes of practice to help guide the industry to achieve environmentally sound performance; and,

4. Indentify and prioritize key research needs.

In advance of the workshop, the background paper will be circulated for review to all participants.

Outputs of the Workshop

The documentation produced from this workshop will be: a Science Advisory Report that summarizes the main conclusions of the meeting; a Proceedings document that summarizes the main points raised and a critical evaluation of the draft working paper; and a Research Document that will outline the provided scientific and technical details.

Participation

Participation from Ecosystem Science (NHQ and Regionally), Oceans Science (NHQ), Client Sector representatives including: Representatives from Environment Canada, Natural Resources Canada and outside/international experts will be expected.