Oceanography The Official Magazine of
The Oceanography Society
Volume 23 Issue 02

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Volume 23, No. 2
Pages 54 - 59

OpenAccess

The Role of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission in Authorizing Hydrokinetic Technology Projects

By Timothy Konnert  
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Article Abstract

There is growing interest in hydrokinetic technologies used to harness the free-flowing, renewable energy of the ocean’s waves, currents, and tides, as well as inland rivers, without the use of dams. In response to this growing interest, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has experienced a surge in activity regarding the testing and development of hydrokinetic projects. Although the Commission’s well-tested regulatory process is compatible with these hydrokinetic projects, providing a strong foundation for overseeing their orderly development, the Commission has been taking steps to adapt its program to the challenges of a new technology. Using input actively solicited from the industry, state and federal agencies, Native American tribes, and the public, the Commission has adapted its administrative procedures to meet the challenges of regulating this nascent industry.

Citation

Konnert, T. 2010. The role of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission in authorizing hydrokinetic technology projects. Oceanography 23(2):54–59, https://doi.org/10.5670/oceanog.2010.44.

References
    Bedard, R.J., M. Previsic, and B.L. Polagye. 2009. Marine energy: How much development potential is there? Hydro Review 12(5), May 2009. Available online at: http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/news/article/2009/04/marine-energy-how-much-development-potential-is-yhere (accessed March 11, 2010).
  1. FERC (Federal Energy Regulatory Commission). 1991. Evaluating relicense proposals at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Office of Hydropower Licensing (Paper DPR-2), Washington, DC.
  2. FERC (Federal Energy Regulatory Commission). 2001. Hydropower licensing and endangered species: A guide for applicants, contractors, and staff. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Office of Hydropower Licensing, Washington, DC.
Copyright & Usage

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