Tidal Turbines in the Bay of Fundy: Current Status

As of 2024, there are no operational commercial tidal turbine arrays in the Bay of Fundy. However, the region is a global hotspot for tidal energy research and pilot deployments.

Key Projects & Tests

• FORCE (Fundy Ocean Research Center for Energy): Test site in Minas Passage (5 km west of Parrsboro, NS). Four subsea cable berths; 64 MW grid connection.
• Sustainable Marine (formerly Schottel): Deployed PLAT-I floating platform with 6 × 70 kW turbines (2021–2023) — generated power to grid.
• Big Moon Power: Tested oscillating hydrofoil device.
• Jupiter Hydro / DP Energy: Planning 100+ MW array (permitting stage).
• Nova Innovation: Shetland-based; exploring Fundy sites.

Challenges

• Extreme flows (>10 knots), turbulence, sediment.
• Environmental monitoring (fish, marine mammals, seabirds).
• Grid connection costs, power purchase agreements.
• Indigenous consultation (Mi'kmaq).

The 1,000 MW Vision

Studies suggest Minas Passage alone could host ~2.5–7 GW extractable. A 1,000 MW array (100+ turbines) is a long-term aspirational target—dependent on technology maturation, economics, and regulatory approval.

For now: demonstration turbines, not commercial farms.