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US Uncorks $16M For 17 Projects To Capture Wave Energy

Posted by samzenpus on from the time-and-tide dept.

coondoggie writes "The US Energy Department this week said it would spend $16 million for seventeen projects to help research and develop energy generating systems from waves, tides and currents. The energy agency says the US could generate up to 1,400 terawatt hours of potential power per year. One terawatt-hour of electricity is enough to power 85,000 homes, according to the agency."

4 of 132 comments (clear)

  1. Less than $1m each? by AmiMoJo · · Score: 5, Interesting

    Doesn't seem like a lot of money for tidal power. Scotland is already way ahead and invests more than that.

    Still, better than nothing.

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    1. Re:Less than $1m each? by Joce640k · · Score: 5, Insightful

      Doesn't seem like a lot of money for tidal power.

      Trillions for wars/spying on the public. Billions for waging a "war on drugs" and the militarization of police forces. $16 million for energy research, something that would fix the economy and kick-start all sorts of amazing technologies.

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  2. Wee, it's no wonder by AliasMarlowe · · Score: 5, Insightful

    With $16M spread across 17 projects, it's no wonder that STEM jobs are underpaid. Then again, with all the billions being wasted on spying (on US citizens as well as foreigners), it no wonder there is so little left for projects which might actually benefit mankind.

    --
    Those who can make you believe absurdities can make you commit atrocities. - Voltaire
  3. Money is great, but regulations are the problem by mveloso · · Score: 5, Informative

    Get all the money you want, but it's regulatory compliance that's the problem, not the money - at least if this company's experience is any guide.

    "Last September, with great fanfare, Ocean Power Technologies began construction on America's first wave-powered utility. Holding the first - and only - wave energy permit from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, OPT had planned to deploy a test buoy off the coast of Reedsport by spring.

    But a year after the permit, regulatory and technical difficulties have all but halted the project. Federal regulators notified the company earlier this year it had violated the license after failing to file a variety of plans and assessments."

    http://www.oregonlive.com/environment/index.ssf/2013/08/oregon_wave_energy_stalls_off.html

    One government hand giveth, other hands taketh away.