Issues and challenges associated with tidal power as a greenhouse gas reduction strategy for remote diesel-dependent communities along British Columbia’s West Coast

Abstract

In British Columbia (BC), Canada, a majority of electricity is produced and distributed by the crown corporation BC Hydro, which sources 90% of their power from hydroelectric generation. However, many remote areas around the province lack connection to the electrical grid and consequently depend upon diesel generators for electricity production, resulting in negative environmental externalities and an increased cost of power. To understand present legislative, technological, and financial barriers to the use of tidal energy as a strategy to displace the use of diesel in BC, and how they may be overcome, I reviewed and analyzed existing literature, and sourced primary data from interviews with industry experts. I determined that policy is the key driver to revitalize funding and technological development. However, first, the case for tidal power must be made to policy makers by communicating both the market and non-market benefits and risks of tidal power in comparison against diesel.