Joint Research Projects Revealed to Improve Ocean Renewable Energy

The Department of Energy (DOE), Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, Regulation and Enforcement (BOEMRE) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) have announced eight joint research projects to advance ocean renewable energy.

The $5m research awards address information gaps concerning the environmental effects of renewable ocean energy and will support the activities of the National Ocean Council established on 19 July 2010.

The effort will lay foundations for a diverse clean-energy mix, enhance energy security, reduce carbon emissions and reduce environmental risks and regulatory uncertainties associated with offshore renewable energy deployment.

The eight projects to receive funding include Bayesian Integration for Marine Spatial Planning and Renewable Energy Siting, and Characterization & Potential Impacts of Noise Producing Construction & Operation Activities on the Outer Continental Shelf.

The projects were offered through a competitive joint funding process known as a Broad Agency Announcement, with the support of the National Oceanographic Partnership Program.