Oregon Public Broadcasting


A new study on Oregon’s capacity for wave energy suggests the state is in good, but not great shape, to take advantage of the infant technology.


The Oregon Wave Energy Trust commissioned the study to get a broad sense of where the state is ready to implement wave energy - and where it’s not. Buoys are in the testing phase on the Oregon Coast. 
 


The study found that the state has the manufacturers, transportation infrastructure, and workforce to exploit wave technology – at least potentially.

But the energy trust’s executive director, Jason Busch, said all of those factors could be improved. Busch said the study highlights a need for energy developers who’ve generally focused on other coastlines.



“So we’re interested in attracting those kind of companies, and also developing our own expertise," he said.



Busch said Oregon’s university system is heavily involved in wave technology.

But the study recommends that community colleges do more to train future workers. 


Read the Study (pdf document)