The Offshore Energy Research Association of Nova Scotia (OERA) and the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) have signed a memorandum of understanding to jointly fund marine energy research projects in Nova Scotia.
The projects to be funded will support academic research carried out in collaboration with Canadian companies over the next three years, according to OERA.
Through the OERA-NSERC Collaborative Research & Development (CRD) and Applied Research & Development (ARD) grants, innovative new projects will provide companies that operate in Canada access to the knowledge, expertise and educational resources available in Nova Scotia’s universities.
The initiative enhances the strong connections already established between energy researchers and industry scientists and engineers, and supports the networked research community that has emerged at the intersection of these two organization’s mandates, OERA said.
Stephen Dempsey , OERA Executive Director, said: “Combining resources and research expertise will advance our leadership in marine energy R&D to the benefit of Nova Scotians and all Canadians. This partnership will increase the value of every research dollar and create more opportunities for Canadian companies and researchers to grow.”
Marc Fortin , Vice-President of Research Partnerships at NSERC, added: “NSERC’s collaborative R&D programs support academic-industry partnerships that de-risk R&D and help launch the next generation of research talent. We are delighted to partner with the OERA to enable the application of leading edge knowledge and expertise in marine energy research that will help Canadian businesses to develop, innovate, and create value for Nova Scotia.”
OERA, in collaboration with NSERC, will provide administrative support for the delivery of the OERA-CRD Program initiative.
The collaboration is expected to result in industrial and economic benefits for Canada, as well as the generation of new scientific knowledge and the training of highly qualified personnel.
Applicants will be asked to demonstrate project alignment with industry needs and development opportunities, as well as the potential for economic benefits in Nova Scotia.