Stormy seas: ocean power promoters struggle to overcome a stiff current of challenges

Earth Island Journal, Spring, 2009 by Larissa Curlik

The capital costs of ocean power, which are expected to be higher than wind and solar, also play a factor in determining its financial viability. While the cost to install a wind-power project ranges from $1.20 to $1.60 per watt, EPRI projects tidal-power projects to cost from $1.70 to $4 per watt to install. Wave projects are likely to cost even more due to their larger scale and capacity.

As companies develop the efficiency and durability of ocean-power technologies, the most likely projects to succeed, according to the Prometheus Institute, will be in remote locations like Eastport, where the cost of electricity is high and the density of ocean power is greatest.

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Regardless of lingering concerns, most residents in Eastport are eager to see ORPC succeed. "When you live out in this area, you are a small blip on the radar," says Bud Finch, city manager of Eastport. Located 22 miles off the main electrical grid, Eastport frequently loses power for more than a week at a time after a big storm. Without a reliable source of energy, the city has difficulty attracting businesses. "We understand that we choose to live out here, but that doesn't mean we can't pursue things that are better," Finch says.

Despite the challenges that face the ocean-power industry today, ORPC continues to make progress in developing its technology. In January, Lewis happily reported that they were finally able to successfully test their latest turbine design. By the end of 2010, they plan to have a five-megawatt pilot facility in place and, if all goes well, will begin commercial production in 2011. "It's an aggressive schedule," Lewis says, "but based on our experience thus far, it's not an unreasonable schedule.... We're doing a lot. We have a lot left to do and we're trying to get it done now. But we still have to be appreciative of the cold."

Larissa Curlik graduated from Bowdoin College in 2007 with a degree in Environmental Design. She now lives in New Jersey.