Report: Oregon has potential for wave energy

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A report commissioned by the Oregon Wave Energy Trust shows that the state’s geography, manufacturing expertise and research muscle position it well for wave energy deployment.

But gaps exist in Oregon’s transportation infrastructure and in its work force skills.

The Oregon Wave Energy Trust, which was set up by Oregon’s economic development department and funded in part with Oregon Lottery money, commissioned the gap analysis to assess the infrastructure needs for ocean-based renewable energy in Oregon and compare those needs against reality.

The report, completed by marine experts at Advanced Research Corporation, includes an extensive analysis of all the ports on the Oregon Coast and potential suppliers to the industry and includes a list of recommendations for industry leaders to consider.

“As a result of the information gathered we conclude that Oregon has tremendous infrastructure capability to develop and deploy wave energy technology, not only into Oregon coastal waters, but also throughout the Pacific Northwest. Furthermore, there is more Oregon can do to prepare itself for this emerging industry,” said John Lavrakas, president, Advanced Research Corporation, in a statement.

The report states that for the next 10 years, the biggest demand in Oregon will be for test and demonstration sites. Full deployment of any wave technology is at least more than a decade in the future.