Aerospace engineers are working to make ocean wave energy the nation’s newest source of green power by applying the physics of wind turbines to the sea.
Former U.S. Air Force Academy scientists took over Texas A&M University’s wave tank recently to test the idea that if air can produce affordable electricity, so can ocean water.
For decades, researchers have sought ways to turn the energy in ocean waves into electricity – economically and with minimal impact to marine environments. But as other forms of renewable energy have flourished, commercial power from ocean waves hasn’t made it onto U.S. grids.
“Ocean wave energy is decades behind wind. But with all the resource in the ocean, it’s much more attractive,” said Stefan Siegel, who led the testing at Texas A&M.
“The wind doesn’t always blow. The sun doesn’t always shine. But ocean waves, they are always there.”
Been hearing this one for decades. I betch Obama will give Siegel some money. If he campaigned for him.