U.S. Energy Department to Invest $42 Million in Offshore Wind, Marine Energy Technologies

The U.S. Energy Department announced $20 million funding for offshore wind projects focused on enhancing the ability to forecast production and demonstrating the application of new commercial-scale technologies. In a separate funding opportunity, the department’ Water Power Technologies Office announced up to $22 million for marine energy foundational research by continuing to build research capabilities at U.S. non-federal research institutions.

The agency aims to facilitate cost-effective wind energy deployment via technical assistance and government coordination, paving the way for innovative technologies that can help lower the cost of energy and technology risk. The research effort intends to improve weather models, which enable wind plant developers and operators to manage their fleet effectively, allowing for predictable, low-cost electricity. Concept papers for the offshore wind funding opportunity are due by April 30 and full applications due on July 9.

With regard to the marine energy funding opportunity, the agency said that the main goal is to pave the way for “commercial adoption of marine energy technologies, while developing intellectual capital for U.S. technology leadership in ocean sciences and marine energy.” The agency encourages applications from non-federal institutions that have previously not received funding for research and development. Concept papers are due by May 11 and full applications on July 7.