Third Call for Climate Change Funding for Seafood Companies
The $6.5-million, three-year Fisheries and Aquaculture Energy Efficiency Innovation Fund supports new and innovative projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions produced by boats, buildings and other commercial fisheries and aquaculture operations. (Province of Nova Scotia / File)
The Province is accepting another round of applications for the Fisheries and Aquaculture Energy Efficiency Innovation Fund, which supports sustainable practices and energy-saving technologies across the sector.
“Investing in our seafood organizations will advance our climate action goals by curbing fossil fuel use and greenhouse gas emissions, while also lowering operational costs for the industry,” said Kent Smith, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture. “In response to the feedback we heard from industry, we’re making changes to the fund to encourage more innovative projects that increase energy efficiency and save money.”
Changes to the fund include adjustment of eligible project costs and requirement for energy data.
The $6.5-million, three-year fund supports new and innovative projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions produced by boats, buildings and other commercial fisheries and aquaculture operations. Eligible projects include adapting emerging electric and hybrid technology for fishing vessels and reducing emissions through equipment upgrades and new technology.
The deadline for applications is December 11.
Quotes:
“Energy efficiency investments will help our fisheries and aquaculture sector reduce its carbon footprint, lower operating costs and strengthen Nova Scotia's competitiveness. By embracing innovative solutions, we can build a more innovative and resilient sector – ensuring a sustainable future for communities across the province.”
— Stephen MacDonald, President and CEO, EfficiencyOne
“We have been working for almost 10 years to find ways to help people electrify vessels knowing that the personal health benefits combined with the lower operational and maintenance costs make this a really great option for fishers. We are in a position to join global leaders in bringing clean technology to mature industries. This funding allows companies like ours to complete the research needed to better understand the needs of the regional fishing and aquaculture industries, serve first customers close to home and learn and scale from Nova Scotia."
— Sue Molloy, CEO, Glas Ocean Electric
Quick Facts:
- the fund has supported 36 projects so far, with investments totalling $3.54 million
- the Nova Scotia Fisheries and Aquaculture Loan Board will make available $10 million over three years in dedicated lending to support eligible applicants
- the fund is a commitment in Our Climate, Our Future: Nova Scotia’s Climate Change Plan for Clean Growth
- the fund is administered by EfficiencyOne on behalf of the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture
- the Department of Energy provided $2 million to the fund
Additional Resources:
More information on the Fisheries and Aquaculture Energy Efficiency Innovation Fund is available at: https://www.efficiencyns.ca/business/business-types/agriculture/fisheries-and-aquaculture-energy-efficiency-innovation-fund/
Fisheries and Aquaculture Loan Board lending program: https://nsfishloan.ca/energy-efficiency
Our Climate, Our Future: Nova Scotia’s Climate Change Plan for Clean Growth: https://climatechange.novascotia.ca/sites/default/files/uploads/ns-climate-change-plan.pdf