ICOE Gathers Marine Renewables Experts

World industry leaders and academic experts in marine renewable energy are gathered in Halifax this week thanks in part to a $150,000 investment from the Government of Canada.

The International Conference on Ocean Energy (ICOE), which is welcoming over 600 participants from 40 countries, is focused on the industrial development of renewable marine energy. Now in its fifth year, the ICOE is being held in Canada for the first time.

In his remarks to conference participants this morning, the Honourable Rob Moore, Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency), highlighted the Government of Canada’s commitment to promoting the development of renewable energy resources in Canada, and also underscored the world-leading innovations taking place in Canada’s renewable marine energy industry.

“Our Government’s top priority remains job creation and economic growth, and supporting innovation is key to our country’s long-term productivity and competitiveness. By bringing together the world’s top researchers and industry representatives to share recent developments in renewable marine energy, the International Conference on Ocean Energy showcases the world-leading innovation taking place in Canada. The selection of Atlantic Canada as North America’s first host is also a testament to our region’s leadership in this sector,” said Moore.

Held every two years since 2006, the ICOE conference and exhibition help accelerate development in marine renewable energy by promoting collaborative networks between companies and research and development centers around the world. The three-day international conference features presentations by world-leading experts, an exhibition with over 60 booths, networking opportunities, technical tours and field trips.

Participants in the Halifax conference will have the opportunity to visit the Fundy Ocean Research Centre for Energy (FORCE) in Parrsboro, Nova Scotia, to see firsthand Canada’s leading test center for in-stream tidal energy technology.