This study investigates two Nova Scotia “dry ports” and their potential in supporting the Bay of Fundy region’s emergent tidal energy industry. The term ‘dry port’ refers to a port where the harbour bottom is mainly exposed at low tide. The research considers how the Hantsport and Parrsboro dry ports could support future operations and maintenance activities for tidal energy developers. Further, the study examines the operational cost differential between Saint John, New Brunswick, vs. Hantsport and Parrsboro, drawing cost comparisons on infrastructure, staging area capacity, turbine mobilization and demobilization activities, and maintenance. As well, the researchers have identified critical factors limiting tidal opportunities for Hantsport and Parrsboro, and estimate the capital investment required to address these gaps that would enable these ports to attract tidal developers’ O&M business going forward.
Principal Investigators: John Hughes, Hughes Offshore and Shipping Services Inc.