Renewable Ocean Energy

As Americans look for more sources of clean, renewable energy our focus is increasingly shifting to the power of the seas.

Renewable ocean energy, marine and hydrokinetic energy, or offshore alternative energy are all terms used to describe energy sources that can be naturally replenished in a relatively short period of time and are derived from the marine environment. From the marine environment it is possible to harness the energy of:

• Waves
• Tides
• Ocean and river currents
• Offshore wind
• Salinity gradients
• Ocean thermal gradients

NOAA's Role

NOAA plays an important role in the siting and environmentally-sound operation of renewable ocean energy projects. Through consultation activities, NOAA provides science-based information, conservation recommendations, and project alternative recommendations to ensure the long-term sustainability of living marine resources and associated habitats.