Nov 15 2010
According to the Marine Board of the European Science Foundation, by 2050 approximately 50% of Europe’s electricity requirements could come from marine renewable sources.
The research categorizes marine renewable energies as ocean currents, tidal, wave and offshore wind. Temperature gradients, salinity, and use of algae for bio-fuel production will also be explored.
Lars Horn, Chair of the Marine Board, stated that marine renewable energy is still a new concept, but offers great potential as a source of energy. If policy and research programs are implemented, then achieving the 50% target could soon be a reality, he said.
However, marine renewable energy requires continuous support for R&D activities to promote advancement. Additionally, proper protocols for environmental monitoring are also needed.
The report offers a number of suggestions to achieve the renewable energy target for Europe. These include complete evaluation of the entire marine renewable resources present in Europe, providing education and training for a skilled workforce, conducting joint research programs and coordinated research projects between universities and industry, establishing European offshore energy grid, consolidating supportive strategies, providing offshore grid interconnector and test site, and securing funds via the European Commission Framework Programme 8.
Source: http://www.esf.org/