ORPC Submits Draft Pilot License Application for East Foreland Tidal Energy Project

The U.S.-based Ocean Renewable Power Company (ORPC) has taken a significant step towards advancing tidal energy development with the submission of a draft pilot license application to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for its East Foreland Tidal Energy Project in Cook Inlet, Alaska. This project is situated in an area identified as having the highest tidal energy potential in the U.S., making it a promising site for harnessing renewable energy.

Supported by the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Water Power Technologies Office (WPTO) through the American Tidal Energy Project, ORPC’s initiative aligns with national energy security goals, emphasizing the importance of diversifying energy sources to include kinetic water movement.

“Harnessing the power of Cook Inlet aligns with Alaska’s vision for its energy future,” stated ORPC President & CEO, Stuart Davies. The company has received positive feedback and support from stakeholders on the Kenai Peninsula and across the state, paving the way for collaborative efforts to advance tidal energy technologies.

ORPC has been actively studying the East Foreland site since receiving a FERC preliminary permit in 2021. In 2024, the company secured a Phase 1 grant from the Energy Department to assess the feasibility of tidal energy deployment using its TidGen technology in conjunction with Proteus Marine Renewables’ AR Series tidal turbine.

The draft application submission to FERC follows extensive engagement with state and federal regulators. The regulatory review process includes a public comment period lasting 30 to 60 days, allowing for input from various stakeholders. The draft license application can be accessed on FERC’s e-Library for further review and feedback.

ORPC has been shortlisted for additional funding from the U.S. DOE’s WPTO, with a potential grant totaling $29 million to support its continued efforts as a key developer within the American Tidal Energy Project. A decision on this funding is anticipated in the coming months, highlighting the significance of ORPC’s contributions to advancing sustainable energy solutions.

In a separate development, ORPC’s Ireland division recently initiated real-sea testing of a next-generation marine hydrokinetic turbine at Northern Ireland’s Strangford Lough tidal test site in December 2024, further showcasing the company’s commitment to innovation and progress in the field of tidal energy.