As the demand for electricity surges across North America, the Great Lakes region is poised to become a significant player in renewable energy generation. With the introduction of cutting-edge submersible hydroelectric technology, cities along the lakes are gearing up to harness their abundant freshwater resources, potentially revolutionising the energy landscape.
Submersible Hydro Technology: A Game Changer
The Ocean Renewable Power Company (ORPC), celebrated for its successful hydroelectric initiatives in Alaska and Maine, has announced its first project in an urban setting. This venture will be located on the St Lawrence River in Montreal, where two hydroelectric devices are set to come online later this year. According to ORPC’s CEO, Stuart Davies, the St Lawrence River offers exceptional potential for hydroelectric generation due to its consistent high-velocity water flow. He notes, “In the Montreal area, there’s 60-90 megawatts of resource potential alone,” underscoring the area’s capability to contribute significantly to energy needs.
The technology developed by ORPC involves turbines crafted from carbon fibre, which resemble traditional lawnmower blades. These turbines are designed to be submerged and powered by the relentless flow of water, transforming kinetic energy into electricity. This innovative approach could provide a vital resource for urban areas grappling with increasing energy demands.
Expanding the Hydropower Frontier
The popularity and efficiency of current and tidal-powered hydroelectric systems are on the rise globally. For instance, the most powerful tidal hydro generator in Scotland can supply electricity to approximately 2,000 homes, while South Korea’s Sihwa Lake tidal power station generates around 550 GWh of electricity annually, equivalent to the energy produced by 862,000 barrels of oil. In response to these advancements, North America is beginning to catch up, with plans for additional projects in the pipeline.
ORPC is set to commence another initiative on the Niagara River in Buffalo, New York, later this year. This expansion comes at a critical juncture, as electricity prices soar across the Great Lakes region, impacting both residential and industrial consumers. The New York Public Service Commission’s recent approval of rate increases has left many residents facing substantial hikes in their electricity bills, a trend mirrored in Michigan and Ohio.
Navigating Challenges and Environmental Concerns
Despite its promise, the deployment of hydroelectric technology in the Great Lakes is not without obstacles. While Quebec has a long-standing tradition of utilising hydropower, regulatory processes in the United States can be protracted, with an average licensing timeline of eight years for hydroelectric facilities.
Moreover, environmental concerns are paramount. The installation of underwater turbines in ecosystems inhabited by diverse fish species has raised alarms among some conservationists. Anne KC McCooey of the Black Rock Riverside Alliance in Buffalo emphasises the need for responsible energy solutions, stating, “You can’t put something up just for the sake of harnessing the energy, while at the same time doing harm to the environment.”
ORPC asserts that its previous projects have not resulted in any fish injuries, citing a site in Alaska where turbines have operated since 2019 without adverse effects on local wildlife. Additionally, scientists are exploring new technologies capable of generating power from slower-moving water, expanding the potential for hydroelectric generation in less turbulent areas of the Great Lakes.
Innovative Solutions for the Future
One notable development in this field is the Vivace technology, tested by Michael Bernitsas at the University of Michigan. This system can harness energy from water currents moving as slowly as half a metre per second, utilising oscillating cylinders to convert kinetic energy into electricity. Bernitsas suggests that this technology could have a significant market for portable applications, such as powering NOAA buoys.
The Great Lakes offer unique advantages, including the absence of salt, which mitigates corrosion concerns faced by ocean-based projects. This factor can enhance the longevity of materials used in hydroelectric systems, ultimately reducing costs. ORPC is also considering a project on the lower Mississippi River, which could further expand its footprint in the renewable energy sector.
Davies highlights the increased interest in marine energy solutions, particularly in light of recent policy shifts that have made the landscape more competitive for hydropower. “We’ve had a lot more interest. Entities from over 70 countries have reached out to inquire about the technology,” he notes, signalling a growing global recognition of marine energy’s potential.
Why it Matters
The push for hydropower in the Great Lakes region reflects a broader shift towards sustainable energy solutions amid rising demands and escalating electricity prices. By leveraging the region’s vast freshwater resources, these innovative projects could provide not only a reliable source of clean energy but also bolster local economies and create jobs. As North America increasingly confronts the challenges of climate change and energy security, the successful deployment of submersible hydroelectric technology could serve as a vital component in the transition to a more sustainable future.
