As the demand for clean energy surges amidst rising electricity prices across the United States, the Great Lakes region is poised to play a pivotal role in the future of hydropower. The introduction of next-generation submersible hydroelectric technology promises to harness the untapped potential of this freshwater haven, providing sustainable energy solutions for urban centres such as Montreal, Chicago, and Detroit.
Harnessing the Power of Waterways
Despite the Great Lakes themselves lacking significant tidal movements, the rivers that connect them, particularly the St Lawrence and Niagara Rivers, present ideal conditions for hydropower generation. The Ocean Renewable Power Company (ORPC), a leader in submersible hydroelectric technology, is set to embark on its first urban project in Montreal along the St Lawrence River later this year. ORPC’s CEO, Stuart Davies, has highlighted the river’s consistent and powerful water flow, suggesting that the Montreal area alone could yield between 60 to 90 megawatts of energy.
“The St Lawrence River is one of the best opportunities in North America for our technology because it has consistent, high-velocity water for hundreds of miles,” Davies remarked. This innovative approach utilises carbon fibre turbines resembling traditional lawnmower blades, converting the kinetic energy of flowing water into electricity.
A Growing Demand for Clean Energy
As electricity rates rise, the need for reliable energy sources becomes increasingly urgent. Last September, the New York Public Service Commission approved significant increases in electricity rates for residents in western New York, including Buffalo. Such hikes are expected to continue, heightening the urgency for alternative energy solutions.
Data centres, which demand substantial amounts of electricity, are particularly relevant in this context. While ORPC’s devices can only generate between half a megawatt and five megawatts, they can serve as a dependable energy source for industrial customers. Davies noted, “If you’re an industrial customer and you’re thinking about the growth of AI… we can be that 24/7 electricity resource that’s part of a baseload in normal times.”
Addressing Environmental Concerns
Despite the promising outlook, the deployment of hydropower technology is not without its critics. Environmentalists express concerns regarding the impact of turbines on local ecosystems, particularly concerning fish populations. Anne KC McCooey from the Black Rock Riverside Alliance in Buffalo emphasised the need for responsible energy solutions that do not compromise ecological balance.
ORPC has countered these concerns by reporting no fish injuries at their Alaskan site, where similar turbines have been in operation since 2019. The technology’s suitability is also influenced by environmental conditions, with scientists exploring methods to generate energy from slower-moving waters, such as those found in the St Clair River.
Future Prospects and Expansion Plans
The potential for growth in the hydropower sector is significant. ORPC plans to extend its operations to the Niagara River in Buffalo later this year, while Orbital Marine Power, which operates a tidal project in Scotland, aims to introduce new tidal devices in Nova Scotia’s Minas Passage.
The absence of salt in Great Lakes waters offers a significant advantage over ocean-based projects, leading to reduced corrosion and maintenance costs. Additionally, ORPC’s successful initiative in Alaska has shown tangible benefits, eliminating the need for fossil fuels and significantly reducing carbon emissions in the local community.
Davies acknowledged the challenges posed by regulatory hurdles, particularly in the US, where the average licensing process for hydroelectric projects can take up to eight years. However, he remains optimistic about the growing interest in hydropower solutions following the recent shifts in federal energy policy.
Why it Matters
The emergence of submersible hydroelectric technology in the Great Lakes region signifies a crucial step towards a sustainable energy future for North America. As rising electricity costs and environmental concerns converge, innovative solutions like those proposed by ORPC may not only alleviate energy demands but also pave the way for cleaner, more resilient energy systems. The ability to harness the power of flowing water in urban settings presents a transformative opportunity, potentially reshaping the energy landscape for millions while addressing climate change challenges head-on.
