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Navy To Prepare An Environmental Assessment For Kinetic Hydropower System Project

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS090722-13
Release Date: 7/22/2009 4:44:00 AM

From Commander, Navy Region Northwest Public Affairs

PUGET SOUND, Wash. (NNS) -- The Navy held two public scoping meetings mid-July on a proposed tidal energy kinetic hydropower system (KHPS) demonstration project in Admiralty Inlet, Puget Sound, offshore of Marrowstone Island, Washington.

Commander, Navy Region Northwest proposes to design, install, generate and deliver electrical energy and also collect operational and environmental data during a demonstration of the KHPS. This is a technology demonstration project involving an in-water test for up to one year followed by complete system removal.

The proposed project includes design and installation of a small grouping of turbines on the sea floor that aligns with the direction of currents to generate electricity as tides flow in and out of Puget Sound. Underwater cables will transmit the electricity generated by the turbines to a land-based facility, where the electricity will be used.

The KHPS demonstration would provide environmental and operational information to help the public better understand the operating capabilities and environmental effects of tidal kinetic hydropower systems.

Two areas are being studied further for the KHPS technology demonstration test, Marrowstone South and Marrowstone North. The Marrowstone South location is preferred due to better tidal characteristics. These two alternative sites will be considered in an environmental assessment.

Congress directed the Navy to study the possible use of KHPS technology in Puget Sound. This demonstration project is in keeping with the National Defense Authorization Act of 2007, which requires 25 percent of electrical power from renewable sources by 2025. The project also supports the Navy's objectives to develop reliable power delivery to its facilities worldwide and to reduce dependence on fossil fuel while supporting its mission capabilities and readiness objectives.

The Navy will consider public comments until August 1. In accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act, a draft environmental assessment will be available for public review in August 2010.

For more news from Navy Region Northwest, visit www.navy.mil/local/cnrnw.