Two Kinds Of Ocean Energy Inch Forward Off The Oregon Coast
September 24, 2024 5:50AM PDT
The city of Newport is seen from the Pacific Ocean near the wave energy test site in Newport, Ore., Friday, Aug. 23, 2024. The coastal waters of Oregon are shaping up to be key for advances in two forms of renewable energy: wave power and wind turbines that float. (AP Photo/Craig Mitchelldyer)
NEWPORT, Ore. (AP) — Off the coast of Oregon, the wind blows hard and waves are strong, attracting researchers and businesses interested in developing two kinds of clean electricity: wave energy and floating offshore wind.
The floating wind is further along, with a lease sale planned for next month.
Fishermen, tribes and coastal communities have pushed back against the plans, concerned that construction will harm sea life, fisheries, marine habitat, culturally important areas and views of the ocean.
The pilot projects for wave energy, by contrast, are not controversial, so far.
Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek says the state needs to do its part, but the development must be done right.
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