A Blueprint for Ocean Energy Development 2010-2015

Abstract

In an effort to foster a collaborative approach to advancing the ocean energy industry, OWET convened the OWET 2010 Developersʼ Summit on September 27 and 28, 2010 in Portland, Oregon. The purpose of the Summit was to create an open dialogue among developers, utilities, and regulatory and policy leaders to develop a strategy to advance ocean energy development in Oregon and the Pacific Northwest of North America by 2015. Approximately 40 attendees gathered for two days of dialog and brainstorming sessions, information sharing, and discussion about opportunities to advance the industry. Key topics addressed in the Summit included regulatory and permitting processes, policies to encourage and finance the early stages of ocean energy development, and connecting facilities to the electrical transmission infrastructure. This Blueprint captures the results of the Summit, identifies goals for 2015, and recommends actions discussed at the Summit. OWET intends for this Blueprint to be used as a focused action plan to advance a responsible ocean energy industry.2 This Blueprint also introduces the concept of “Blue Tag Power” that was discussed at the Summit and developed further at Ocean Renewable Energy Conference V. Blue Tag Power is a designation that would include wave, tidal, in-stream current and offshore wind.