Wave Energy Pilot Project Underway for Westport and Ocean Shores

On February 24 two public meetings hosted by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission in Ocean Shores discussed the permitting process necessary for wind and wave energy projects in Washington State. Since 2007, a company known as Grays Harbor Ocean Energy LLC began researching Washington’s potential for wave and wind energy and on July 10, 2008 they applied for and were granted a federal preliminary permit giving them exclusive rights for a feasibility study to be conducted off our coast. Both Ann Miles, director of energy projects for the commission and Burt Hamner, President and CEO of the company were present at last Tuesday’s presentation to field questions and comments about this project’s current status and future progress. About 20 area citizens participated in the presentations evening session and included representatives from fishing and crabbing associations, conservation groups, tribes, and recreationalists.

After a thorough presentation of the permitting process by Miles, Hamner spoke about the details of the company’s plan to move forward the next phase of their project with an application due to the commission by July 31, 2009 for a commercial license. This will allow them to build as many as six devices for an official “pilot project.” Hamner emphasizes that at this time the current plan is to build two single platforms to be placed at each of two test sites, one in Westport off Bonge Avenue and the other just north of Ocean Shores. Each device will have both wave and wind energy converters built into the legs and will be situated 2 to 3 miles offshore in shallow waters. Cables buried in sea beds and under the beach will carry the electricity back to shore to nearby substations. Hamner said “The devices would be monitored for two years to see if placing them off the coast long-term is profitable.” He also mentioned the need to determine whether or not the platforms can withstand the harsh winters our coastline has to offer. The company’s current permit is for wave energy only, but they explained how wind turbines could be added at a later date. Hamner states that a full scale wave and wind farm along our coastline could supply enough energy to power the entire Olympic Peninsula and make Grays Harbor one of the largest producers of renewable energy in the world.

A multitude of questions and concerns came from participants, most of which pertained to the possible impacts this project could have both short and long term on the fishing and tourism industries and on sensitive marine environments. Miles said she’s received many questions about potential environmental impacts this project may have, but adds that the only way to collect solid data is through thorough testing. She explained that the commission’s permitting process is designed to address concerns and opposition throughout the assessment, design, and construction phases and also allows for multiple public comment opportunities. The public is encouraged to follow the permitting process to stay apprised of this comment period so both support and opposition can be factored into the commission’s decision making and approval process.

At this time it is uncertain what lies ahead for coastal Washington’s future as a wave or wind energy producer. It is important to note, however, that the public does have the ability to make certain that this project goes forward with sustainability in mind for the integrity of both our coastal communities and marine resources.

For more information on Grays Harbor Ocean Energy LLC and this pilot project please visit http://www.graysharboroceanenergy.com/. To find out more about the permitting process and how to submit your comments on this project please visit the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s Website at http://www.ferc.gov/industries/hydropower/indus-act/hydrokinetics.asp or contact Ann Miles at (202) 502-6769.