Hook up to tidal wave energy on seaboard locations

Wave energy converters enjoy two advantages over other systems. First, because they use the continuous up-and-down motion of waves to generate energy, there is no break in energy production due to the pauses that naturally occur twice in every tidal cycle. Second, as they are built to ride as close to the waves as possible, no superstructures mar up the seaside view, like windmills have to in order to catch the wind.

I recommend: DEXA is one of the only companies with a full-scale wave energy converter. The bioWAVE power system, manufactured by BioPower Systems is anchored to a sea bed, where the swaying motion, like seaweed or kelp, generates electricity. The Pelamis Wave Energy Converter is a semi-submerged, articulated structure composed of cylindrical sections linked by hinged joints supported by wave-induced motion. Hydraulic rams, pump high-pressure fluid through hydraulic motors via smoothing accumulators and these motors drive electrical generators to produce electricity.

Ebb and flow with ocean energy from tidal energy products

Traditional tidal designs combined the technologies of hydroelectric dams and canal lock systems, essentially locking in water during high tide then releasing the dammed water through turbines to rush back out during low tide. New technologies negate the need for such large civil engineering projects and work when the tide comes in and goes out.

I recommend: UEK Corporation has been developing and producing low-impact turbines ("Underwater Electric Kites") since 1981. Contact them for a consultation. Vortex Hydro Energy uses a series of oscillating rods, rather than turbine blades, so it’s even less obtrusive to marine life.

Capture energy from the ocean in steady currents

Rather than wait for tides to ebb and flow, these systems run on the constant current of a flowing body of water. Embedded in the water as stand-alone units or strung together, they also negate the need for a dam.

I recommend: Blue Energy is a vertical axis underwater turbine that you can install anywhere, from a stand-alone unit up to a "tidal fence" producing thousands of megawatts of electricity, for pennies per kilowatt hour. Consult them for more information. Verdant Power also has developed an underwater turbine and has current projects in New York, Seattle and Ontario. Complete their questionnaire to see if this product would be the right fit for your operation.