Ocean Renewable Power Company successfully generates grid capable power from tidal currents at largest ocean energy plant in U.S.

Ocean Renewable Power Company (ORPC), a leading developer of technology and eco-conscious projects designed to harness river and ocean power for clean, predictable and affordable energy generation, has successfully generated grid-compatible power from tidal currents. The Beta Power System is the largest ocean energy ‘power plant' ever installed in U.S. waters. It is located at the company's Cobscook Bay site in Eastport, Maine.

The proprietary Turbine Generator Unit (TGU), Energy Tide 2, is the system's core component and is deployed below the company's world-class research and testing vessel. The TGU has a maximum design capacity of 60 kilowatts, and performance tests results have concluded that the electrical output meets or exceeds expectations for the full range of current velocities encountered. ORPC intends to utilize the data gathered from the Beta Power System for fine tuning the design of its commercial TidGen™ Power System, which is due to be installed in Eastport in late 2011. The TideGen system will be connected to the New England grid through the Bangor Hydro Electric Company system, generating enough electricity for powering up to 75 homes.

"Proving the efficacy of the Beta Power System and its ability to generate grid-compatible power day in and day out is a huge milestone for America's ocean energy industry," stated Chris Sauer, president and CEO of ORPC. "It reaffirms the limitless opportunities to advance the nation's renewable energy agenda and ensure a more sustainable future."

Tidal energy has great promise for becoming a billion dollar industry in Maine over the following ten years. The industry will also create hundreds of jobs in that area. The bodies of water surrounding Eastport are considered to have some of the greatest tidal currents in the world.