September 20, 2012 – Bras d’Or in Nova Scotia is one step closer to enjoying renewable electricity generated in its own backyard. The community received approval today for an in-stream tidal project under the Community Feed-in Tariff (COMFIT) Program.

Fundy Tidal will develop the 0.5 MW project in the Great Bras d’Or Channel. It will be financed, in part, through a Community Economic Development Investment Fund (CEDIF), which will sell shares across the province, with an emphasis in the local community.

“This is a significant milestone in our aspirations to develop tidal power in Cape Breton. There are many more milestones to achieve in the years ahead before this project can become a reality,” said Dana Morin, director of business development for Fundy Tidal. “The completion of the Strategic Environmental Assessment, First Nations Consultations, further research to determine the viability of the project and, ultimately, support from community stakeholders will all be required to move forward in a sustainable and responsible manner.”

Nova Scotia’s 2010 Renewable Electricity Plan introduced the COMFIT concept to “help provide a secure supply of clean energy at stable prices, build community support for renewable energy projects and create jobs”.

More than 25 community-based groups have submitted over 100 locally based renewable energy development proposals for this initiative. The province expects 100 MW to be produced through COMFIT.