The DOE, BOEMRE, and NOAA have announced research awards totaling almost $5 million to support projects involving renewable ocean energy. With emphasis on siting and permitting offshore wind energy facilities and ocean energy generated from waves, tides, currents, and thermal gradients, the project main goals of these projects include:
- Diversification of energy mix
- Creation of American manufacturing jobs
- Renewable sources of ocean energy
"The nation's oceans represent a major potential source of clean renewable energy, and DOE is committed to developing the innovative technologies that will harness that potential," says U.S. Secretary of Energy Steven Chu.
"We are pleased to join with our partners in announcing these important studies that will give us insight into ocean renewable energy development. Opportunities such as these allow us to enhance our knowledge of the nation's oceans, advance the work within the scientific community and take important steps on the path toward energy independence," says BOEMRE Director Michael R. Bromwich.
"There are many new and exciting renewable energy opportunities waiting for us in the ocean," says Commerce Under Secretary for Oceans and Atmosphere and NOAA Administrator Jane Lubchenco. "These grants will help realize that potential by understanding environmental impacts and incorporating appropriate mitigation measures from the outset."
The partnership between the three organizations will provide a common research portfolio that supports sharing results and eliminates redundancies in the emerging field of ocean renewable energy innovation.
For a complete of list ocean renewable energy projects and funding allocation, see the official DOE announcement.
Renewable Energy for Existing Buildings
Finding Your Best Renewable Energy Strategy
Renewable Energy Gathers Steam