Wave Energy
"Wave" hello to the prospect of harnessing the ocean's potential for
the generation of electricity. Oregon State University has identified
the coastal areas off Reedsport/Gardiner as a prime demonstration site
for research and development of ocean wave energy. Research conducted
by OSU and the Electric Power Research Institute has shown that the
Oregon coastline presents some of the richest ocean wave energy
potentials in the nation.
OSU has developed three prototype buoys designed to be anchored 1-2
miles offhore, in typical depths of greater than 100 feet, where they
will experience gradual, repetitive ocean swells. One model uses the
wave motion to cause electrical coils to move through a magnetic
field, inducing voltages and generating electricity. Other "rack and
pinion" and "piston" styles are being studied as well.
Wallace Energy Systems & Renewables Facility - OSU College of Engineering
For more information on "Creating Energy From Waves", please visit the Oregon State University's WESRF website today.
