FERC issues preliminary permits for studies of Alaska tidal power plants

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has issued preliminary permits for feasibility studies into the construction of in-stream tidal power generation facilities at four Alaska locations. The permits give the permit holders first priority in applying for licenses for the proposed power plants, following completion of the feasibility studies. But the permits do not authorize entry to land or the installation of any equipment.

In-stream tidal power involves the use of turbine generators placed in a tidal current, rather than the impoundment of seawater behind a dam. A tidal current of sufficient power to generate useful quantities of electricity requires a combination of a large tidal range and a sea channel that focuses the tidal flow.

One of the FERC permits is for Natural Currents Services’ proposed tidal power plant in Knik Arm, between Cairn Point and Port Mackenzie near Anchorage (see “Tidal Power Draws Interest” in the Oct. 8, 2006, edition of Petroleum News). The power plant would generate 4,380 megawatt-hours of electricity for sale to a local utility.

FERC has also issued temporary permits to Alaska Tidal Energy Co. for proposed projects at Gastineau Channel (Juneau), Icy Passage and the Wrangell narrows, all in Southeast Alaska.

The permits run for 36 months and require the filing of a schedule of activities and the submission of six-monthly progress reports.

Several companies have shown an interest in the use of tidal power at various Alaska locations, including a Chevron idea to use tidal power as a source of electricity for its Cook Inlet oil platforms.

—Alan Bailey