RENEWABLE ENERGY - TIDAL
Tidal energy has the benefits of being a renewable energy source that is predictable in time, duration, and production levels for the foreseeable future with a high level of accuracy. It could also displace the need for other non-renewable energy sources that contribute to global warming.
But there are also a lot of unknowns about the effects of tidal energy development on marine resources. Studies have not been conducted to identify the effects of these energy projects on marine life. As projects are planned and developed in the United States and in Canada, studies will need to be conducted to analyze the potential effects.
In Puget Sound there are currently 8 proposed projects by 2 different Proponents. Tacoma Power is proposing to develop tidal energy at the Tacoma Narrows. Public Utility District Number 1 of Snohomish County (SnoPUD) has proposed projects for Admiralty Inlet, Agate Pass, Deception Pass, Guemes Channel, Rich Pass, San Juan Channel and Spieden Channel.
Tacoma Power has a three year study permit issued by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). SnoPUD also has study permits issued for all of their projects.
