Nova Scotia’s seafood sector knows what it means to adapt. From changing waters to shifting shorelines, fishers and aquaculture operators are already navigating the effects of climate change. Now, many are going a step further—reducing emissions, improving efficiency, and testing new ideas that could shape the future of fishing itself.
Support for Practical Innovation
To help that shift take hold, the Fisheries and Aquaculture Energy Efficiency Innovation Fund (FAEEIF) launched in 2024/25. The goal: support practical and innovative projects that reduce energy use and emissions in Nova Scotia’s commercial seafood sector.
Speaking to the program’s impact, Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister, Kent Smith, noted, “Addressing climate change continues to be a priority for our government. Funding for these seafood organizations will help support our efforts to respond to climate change, reducing fossil fuel use and greenhouse gas emissions, as well as reduce costs for industry.”
Funded through Nova Scotia’s Climate Change Plan for Clean Growth and administered by Efficiency Nova Scotia, the program awarded more than $1.8 million to 14 projects across the province in its first round.
These are hands-on, locally led efforts—solar systems on storage facilities, electric upgrades to equipment, energy assessments that lay the groundwork for what comes next. Together, they’re expected to prevent an estimated 39,200 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions over their lifetimes.
A First for the Fishing Fleet
Among the funded projects is a national first—a fully electric lobster boat, piloted by Membertou Fisheries Inc. With support from FAEEIF, Membertou is demonstrating that battery-electric propulsion has real potential in Canada’s commercial fishery.
“The province’s support to build and demonstrate the first all-electric lobster boat is an important step in developing Membertou’s sustainable fishery for future generations. The electric boat will play an important role in building trust in battery-electric propulsion,” says Chief Terry Paul, CEO of Membertou.
It’s a project rooted in tradition—and looking squarely at the future.
Smart Power, Shared Benefits
Other projects are taking a similarly forward-thinking approach. Red Fish Blue Fish Inc., in East Jeddore, for example, is installing a solar photovoltaic system with battery storage at its bait storage facility. The upgrade will cut emissions, lower energy costs, and supply extra power back to the grid.
These upgrades aren’t just good for the environment — they’re helping operators manage energy more efficiently, plan ahead, and stay competitive in a changing world.
Funding That Fits
The FAEEIF is a partnership between the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture, the Department of Energy, and Efficiency Nova Scotia. It offers non-repayable, claims-based contributions of up to $250,000, covering 50% to 75% of project costs.
Applicants can choose from four funding streams:
- Electrification – Electric vessels, vehicles, and charging systems
- Renewables – Solar, wind, and other clean energy installations
- Operational Efficiency – Energy-saving upgrades and monitoring tools
- Study Path – Research to support future emission-reducing projects
It’s a flexible program approach, because what works in one harbour or facility might look different in another.
Bringing Resources Together
The Fund is just one part of a growing toolkit. The new Fisheries and Aquaculture Climate Change Portal offers resources, reports, and information tailored to Nova Scotia’s seafood and sportfishing sectors. It’s a central hub where operators can explore new ideas, stay informed, and learn how to adapt to changing conditions.
Charting a Course Forward
Nova Scotia’s seafood sector has always been resilient. With the right support, it's also proving to be a place for climate leadership—practical, local, and rooted in deep experience.
Because at the end of the day, this is about more than technology. It’s about people, communities, and a way of life that depends on healthy oceans, stable ecosystems, and the ability to keep moving forward.
Because climate change isn’t coming—it’s already here.