As the United States grapples with escalating electricity costs and a growing demand for clean energy, the Great Lakes region is poised to become a hub for innovative hydropower solutions. With significant freshwater resources and a burgeoning urban population, projects involving submersible hydroelectric technology are on the horizon, promising to reshape energy consumption patterns in cities such as Montreal, Toronto, and Chicago.
New Ventures in Hydropower Technology
The Ocean Renewable Power Company (ORPC), a pioneer in submersible hydroelectric projects, has announced its inaugural urban installation along the St Lawrence River in Montreal. This initiative aims to deploy two hydroelectric devices later this year, tapping into the river’s strong and consistent water flow. Stuart Davies, ORPC’s CEO, highlighted the St Lawrence River’s potential, stating, “In the Montreal area, there’s 60-90 megawatts of resource potential alone.”
Unlike the Great Lakes, which lack significant tidal movements, the interconnecting rivers provide a viable source for hydropower generation. The devices utilise carbon fibre turbines, reminiscent of traditional push lawnmower blades, to convert the kinetic energy of flowing water into electricity.
Global Context and Technological Advancements
The burgeoning interest in marine power generation reflects a global shift towards renewable energy sources. Notable advancements include Scotland’s powerful tidal hydro generator capable of supplying electricity to 2,000 homes, and South Korea’s Sihwa Lake tidal power station, which generates approximately 550 GWh annually—equivalent to the energy produced by 862,000 barrels of oil.
North America is now catching up, with plans for additional projects in the Great Lakes region, including a second initiative on the Niagara River in Buffalo, New York, slated for later this year. The rising electricity prices in the Great Lakes area underscore the urgency for alternative energy solutions, particularly as regions such as western New York face steep rate hikes approved by the public service commission.
Addressing Environmental Concerns
While the push for renewable energy sources is gaining momentum, it is not without controversy. Environmentalists have raised concerns regarding the impact of hydropower technology on local ecosystems, particularly concerning fish species and wildlife habitats. Anne KC McCooey from the Black Rock Riverside Alliance in Buffalo emphasised the necessity for responsible energy practices, 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 has responded to these concerns by highlighting its successful track record in Alaska, where its turbines have not resulted in any recorded injuries to fish populations. As the technology continues to evolve, efforts are underway to ensure that environmental considerations remain at the forefront of hydropower development.
Innovations in Hydropower Generation
Research is also underway to explore the potential of slower-moving waterways in the Great Lakes. Michael Bernitsas, a professor at the University of Michigan, is testing a novel hydroelectric technology named Vivace, which harnesses energy from currents moving at speeds as slow as half a metre per second. This technology could provide a solution for generating power in areas where traditional turbine systems may not be feasible.
The absence of salt in the Great Lakes is an additional advantage, as it reduces corrosion-related issues, thereby extending the lifespan of equipment and lowering maintenance costs. Furthermore, certain tidal projects can be anchored to the riverbed, mitigating complications that surface ice can introduce during winter months.
The Road Ahead
As ORPC prepares to expand its operations, including a planned project on the lower Mississippi River, there is a growing recognition of the need for diverse energy sources. With the current administration’s policies favouring marine energy, the landscape for hydropower investments is becoming increasingly favourable. Davies noted, “We’ve had a lot more interest. Entities from over 70 countries have reached out to inquire about the technology.”
The future of hydropower in the Great Lakes is bright, driven by innovation and a commitment to sustainable energy solutions. However, the path forward will require careful navigation of environmental concerns and regulatory challenges to fully realise its potential.
Why it Matters
The development of submersible hydropower technology in the Great Lakes represents a significant step towards a cleaner, more sustainable energy future. As cities confront rising electricity demands and costs, innovative solutions like those proposed by ORPC could provide much-needed relief while ensuring environmental stewardship. This convergence of technology and policy could not only transform energy landscapes but also pave the way for the broader adoption of renewable energy sources across North America.
