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Installation of Fundy tidal turbines delayed over fisheries concerns

A turbine for the Cape Sharp Tidal project is seen at the Pictou Shipyard in Pictou, N.S. on Thursday, May 19, 2016. Two turbines will be launched in the Bay of Fundy with the potential to provide energy to more than 1,000 customers in Nova Scotia by harnessing the power of the tides.
A turbine for the Cape Sharp Tidal project is seen at the Pictou Shipyard in Pictou, N.S. on Thursday, May 19, 2016. Two turbines will be launched in the Bay of Fundy with the potential to provide energy to more than 1,000 customers in Nova Scotia by harnessing the power of the tides. The Canadian Press

A plan to install the first of two towering turbines designed by Cape Sharp Tidal to harness the power of the Bay of Fundy has been put on hold.

One of the five-storey high turbines was scheduled to leave Pictou, N.S., this weekend to be taken by barge around the province to a spot in the Minas Basin near Parrsboro.

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However, Nova Scotia Environment Minister Margaret Miller says the province has yet to approve a proposed environmental effects monitoring program, and there’s no timeline for making that happen.

The project has faced strong opposition from members of the Bay of Fundy Inshore Fishermen’s Association who contend that instream tidal turbines can’t be made safe for the ecosystem.

In a statement, Sarah Dawson of Cape Sharp Tidal says they’ve delayed the first deployment to consult further with various stakeholders who feel they haven’t been heard.

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Cape Sharp’s turbines are expected to generate enough electricity to power 1,000 homes.

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