| Press Release |
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| March 27, 2006 |
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Governor pushes development of ocean 'wave energy' in Oregon
Wave technology is part of Governor’s vision for renewable energy
Corvallis—Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski watched a demonstration today of electrical power generation from ocean wave action, and announced his support for a federal earmark of $3 million to establish a national Wave Energy Research, Development and Demonstration Center in Oregon.
"This remarkable technology is part of my vision for energy independence and renewable energy in Oregon," Governor told researchers at Oregon State University, where work on the technology has begun. "I want Oregon to be the national leader in renewable energy production, consumption and independence. Generating electricity from the motion of ocean waves is a critical aspect of that goal. This is the kind of progress that creates long-term prosperity and great new jobs for Oregonians, while reducing our dependence on fossil fuels from overseas."
The Governor said his renewable energy agenda will give Oregon the leadership role he envisions by:
Promoting greater energy conservation and efficiency.
Enacting comprehensive policies in support of biofuels and biomass energy technologies, such as a renewable biofuels standard; and
Establishing a "renewable portfolio standard" to ensure that statewide renewable electrical energy use reaches 25 percent by 2025 (among the most ambitious timetable in the country).
Earlier this month, the Governor announced that the state will lead by example by accelerating his target of 100 percent of renewable electricity use by state government by 2010, a move experts say will stimulate energy providers to increase their investment in sources of renewable power generation.
In a briefing by OSU Professor Annette von Jouanne, Oregon’s leading researcher in wave energy extraction technology, the Governor heard that the technology is in the preliminary stages of development, about where wind turbines were 15-20 years ago.
"I’m encouraged that renewable technologies like wind power are maturing, and that they are becoming cost-competitive with natural gas generation," the Governor said. "But we must not ignore the potential for other forms of power generation, like ocean wave technology."
The Governor observed that Oregon is well situated for research and development into wave energy extraction with the research underway at OSU. Also, the Electric Power Research Institute has identified Reedsport, OR, as an ideal location for a demonstration project that shows the viability of the technology.
Setting up the Wave Energy Research, Development and Demonstration Center in Oregon is among the top priorities the Governor has outlined to Oregon’s congressional delegation, he said. "I am committed to doing everything I can to locate the Center in Oregon," the Governor said, "and I intend to work at both the federal and state levels. This kind of clean, renewable technology is the future of Oregon and our nation. Oregon has the opportunity to lead the transformation of energy consumption on a national and global scale, and we must make the most of that opportunity."
For information about the Governor's energy independence agenda, go to:
http://governor.oregon.gov/Gov/sos2006/energy.shtml
For information about the Governor's biofuels target and incentive programs, go to:
http://governor.oregon.gov/Gov/p2006/press_032006.shtml
Media Contacts:
Lonn Hoklin (503.378.6169)
Anna Richter Taylor (503.378.6496)
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