Canada: Halifax to Host Next International Conference on Ocean Energy

While delivering the welcoming remarks at the International Conference on Ocean Energy in Dublin, Ireland, the Honourable Bernard Valcourt, Associate Minister of National Defence and Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency) (La Francophonie) announced that Halifax, Nova Scotia has been selected to host the next edition of this event in 2014. He also highlighted Canadian expertise and competence in this emerging sector, and promoted the many advantages to doing business in Canada.

“Developing our resources is a key component of our Government’s agenda of job creation, economic growth and long-term prosperity,” said Minister Valcourt. “Canada and Atlantic Canada are recognized as leaders in the ocean energy industry and the Government of Canada is determined to support the development of this promising sector and to maintain and promote our leadership. The opportunity to host the 5th International Conference on Ocean Energy will put Canada’s ocean energy businesses, research and technology at centre stage.”

Held every two years, the International Conference on Ocean Energy (ICOE) is a global event focused on the industrial development of renewable marine energy. The 4th International Conference and trade show is currently being held in Dublin, Ireland from October 17-19, 2012. The bi-annual conference attracts participants from technology development companies, research and development organizations, governments, utilities and other commercial project development entities. The conference continues to grow, with this year’s event attracting over 750 participants.

Marine Renewables Canada, Canada’s ocean energy industry association, will organize the event in 2014. This will be the first time that a North American city has hosted this international event, signifying that Canada is viewed as one of the global leaders in the marine renewable energy industry. Marine Renewables Canada works with industry, academia and government with the goal of helping Canada be a leader in providing ocean energy solutions to a world market.

The choice will also further cement Atlantic Canada’s reputation as a leader in ocean energy research, development and demonstration and provides a prime opportunity to attract international interest and investment in one of the world’s largest tidal energy resources—the Bay of Fundy. With Atlantic Canada’s industrial experience in offshore energy research, ICOE 2014 is also expected to attract exhibitors representing several aspects of the sector.

“One of the important steps identified in Canada’s marine renewable energy roadmap last year was ensuring a place for Canada’s expertise and companies in this new world industry.  Hosting this event will be an important showcase for the region’s traditional maritime industry experience, recent work in the offshore and currently with the marine renewable initiatives,” said Chris Campbell, Executive Director for Marine Renewables Canada.

Minister Valcourt is leading a Canadian delegation of 22 businesses and organizations representing Canada’s ocean technology sector to ICOE 2012. While in Dublin, Minister Valcourt has met with Ministers representing various sectors in Ireland, to discuss topics related to ocean energy and to raise Canada’s profile as a leader in ocean energy solutions.

Canada’s participation in ICOE 2012 was coordinated by Natural Resources Canada, the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, the province of Nova Scotia and Marine Renewables Canada (formerly the Ocean Renewable Energy Group -OREG).

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Press release, October 18, 2012; Image: icoe2012dublin