Premier Promotes Clean Energy Opportunities in Boston

NOTE: A social media version of this release, with hi-res, downloadable photos, is available at http://gov.ns.ca/news/smr/2010-11-05-Clean-Energy/ .

Premier Darrell Dexter returned today, Nov. 5, from the U.S.-Canada Energy Trade and Technology Conference in Boston where he found significant interest in Nova Scotia's clean reliable energy opportunities.

"The northeastern United States is Nova Scotia's most significant export market, said Premier Dexter. "This conference was an opportunity to build on New England's growing interest in our clean energy, which means good jobs and more investment in the province."

Premier Dexter gave the keynote speech at the energy conference. It is only the second time a premier has addressed the group.

"This is a major event in the energy sector in North America, drawing more than 200 industry and government leaders," Premier Dexter said.

"As the premier, I make it a priority to seize every opportunity to get the message out about our vast potential to create clean, reliable energy for our province, and beyond."

On the first day of the conference, the premier participated with Nova Scotia business leaders in the conference's first executive forum on clean energy.

Scott Travers, president of Minas Basin Pulp and Power, Reuben Burge, president of RMSenergy, and Robin McAdam, executive vice- president of sustainability for Nova Scotia Power, spoke to a packed room about the exciting opportunities available in Nova Scotia's renewable energy sector.

Minas Basin made history in 2008 when the company was awarded the responsibility of building North America's first tidal demonstration facility C Fundy Ocean Research Centre for Energy helping to promote Nova Scotia as a world leader in tidal power.

"By connecting the vast natural resource found in the tides of the Bay of Fundy with the impressive human resources in Nova Scotia, we developed a facility of which we can all be proud, and one that will advance tidal energy in North America," said Mr. Travers. "Perhaps of most importance is the fact that we also have a government that wants to make it work, and has created a clear regulatory process to follow."

While in Boston, Premier Dexter had several business development meetings, and also met with Pat Binns, Canada's Consul General in Boston.

Some of the issues highlighted at the conference, including energy and the environment, will also be discussed at the 35th annual New England Governors and Eastern Canadian Premiers meeting in Halifax July 10-12.