Weekly Intelligence Brief

Marine power gets $7.5M boost from DOE

8 May 2008

Tidal, current and wave energy technologies received a vote of confidence from the DOE, which has pledged up to $7.5 million in funding to support new projects. It plans on partnering with major U.S. research institutions and firms to develop new and innovative technologies that will more efficiently harness the ocean’s bountiful energy.

The DOE expects university research to focus on experimental and numerical modeling, environmental impact assessment, wave forecasting and the development of corrosion-resistant materials. Up to 17 grants will be awarded, starting later this year; the continuation of the projects will be subject to Congressional approval, which, with its expected makeup following the November elections, looks promising.