Premier Dexter Promotes Nova Scotia's Tidal Energy to Key Congressional Leaders in Washington

Premier Darrell Dexter today, Feb. 22, will complete a series of successful meetings with key members of President Barack Obama's administration, American governors, senators and members of Congress.

Premier Dexter was joined by Scott Travers, president and chief operating officer of Minas Basin Pulp and Power, to talk with U.S. government officials about Nova Scotia's tidal energy opportunities.

"I am excited that Scott and I were able to inform some of the most influential people in the United States about Nova Scotia's tidal energy potential," said Premier Dexter.

The meetings were an ideal opportunity to promote Nova Scotia's renewable energy sources. It was also a chance to gain a better understanding of the United States' ever-changing policy and legislative landscape, which will impact business opportunities for Nova Scotia's tidal and wind energy in American markets.

Research suggests that the Bay of Fundy is the best site for tidal power generation in North America. It is an enormous tidal resource located next to an existing transmission grid and potential consumers.

"The future for tidal power is strong right now. We have a world-class resource attracting world-class technology," said Premier Dexter. "Tidal power from the Bay of Fundy is one of Nova Scotia's most promising sources of clean, renewable energy. We need to showcase these and other assets to our American neighbours."

Premier Dexter met with U.S. senators Olympia Snowe (R-ME), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), and Susan Collins (R-ME). The meetings focused on electrical transmission capacity, leading renewable energy initiatives, such as Maine's Offshore Wind, and U.S. climate and energy policy.

Dexter expressed hope that Senator Collins' proposed legislation, Carbon Limits and Energy for American Renewal (CLEAR) Act – which aims to curb carbon-dioxide emissions through a concept called Cap and Dividend – will be adopted as U.S. Climate policy this year.

Premier Dexter was in Washington, D.C., as part of the Council of the Federation Mission for the winter meeting of the National Governors Association. The mission focused on trade and border security, as well as energy and the environment.