HALIFAX—Today, Oceans North convened leaders from the marine industry, government, utilities, private operators, and Indigenous communities at the H2O Conference in Halifax to address challenges and advance the future of marine electrification in Atlantic Canada.

To keep global warming to no more than 1.5°C—as called for in the Paris Agreement—emissions need to decrease 45 percent by 2030 and reach net-zero by 2050. As Canada and other G20 nations pursue decarbonization policies on the path to a net-zero economy, marine electrification represents both a significant challenge and a major opportunity: the global market for electric vessels is projected to grow to a USD$29-billion industry by 2030.

The roundtable marked a new milestone, with more than 40 marine sector leaders from across the value chain reaching a consensus on the urgent need to support and advocate for marine electrification initiatives.

“This is the first time the entire marine value chain—from wind to wake—has come together to reduce emissions, create new jobs, and position Canada as a leader in sustainable maritime technology. Today’s consensus is a significant step towards achieving the adoption and deployment of electric and hybrid-electric boats in Atlantic Canada,” said Brent Dancey, Director of Marine Climate Action, Oceans North.

Hosted by Oceans North, the Ocean Technology Council of Nova Scotia, and Bluegrid, the roundtable brought together experts and thought leaders from across the ocean economy and electricity market.

“Today’s meeting marks a pivotal moment for marine electrification in Atlantic Canada,” said Adria Jover, President of the International Electric Marine Association. “By uniting industry leaders, government representatives, and community partners, we are paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future. The consensus reached today underscores the commitment to reducing emissions and creating new economic opportunities that will position Atlantic Canada at the forefront of global marine innovation. Canada can and should be a global leader in the complete decarbonization of our oceans. Now is the time.”

The discussions underscored the economic and environmental potential of transitioning to battery-powered boats and zero-emission vessels, positioning Atlantic Canada as a leader in the global shift towards sustainable maritime operations.

Key Outcomes from the Roundtable:

1. Unified Advocacy for Marine Electrification: Representatives from industry, government, utilities, private operators, and Indigenous communities agreed on the importance of creating demonstration projects that show marine electrification in action. Canadians need to experience first-hand how electric maritime technologies can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance the region’s economic competitiveness.
2. Development of Financial Incentives and Support Mechanisms: Participants highlighted the need for robust financial incentives to overcome the cost barriers and share the risks associated with marine electrification. Incentives to support the development and deployment of new technologies, including charging infrastructure and grid upgrades, will ensure accessibility and affordability for communities.
3. Developing Coastal Smart Grids: Discussions also focused on the need for modernizing the electricity grid and developing advanced charging infrastructure to support electric vessels and the development of micro-grids. Bi-directional charging and vessel-to-grid (V2G) technologies were identified as key innovations that can enhance grid stability and resilience, providing additional economic and environmental benefits.