Technologies that harvest energy from seawater and large rivers are under development around the world. Marine renewable energy (MRE) devices are designed to take advantage of tidal currents, fast flowing rivers, and waves, as well as persistent ocean currents and natural gradients of temperature and salinity in ocean waters. The potential benefits that MRE can bring to nations and stakeholders are driving research studies, development of engineering systems, and experimental deployments of wave energy converters, tidal and riverine turbines, as well as systems to harvest thermal gradients (called ocean thermal energy conversion, or OTEC) and salinity gradients. These studies, trials, and experiments are the leading edge of the development of an international MRE industry that is helping to mitigate climate change, decarbonize power systems, and stabilize energy supplies around the world. As this development occurs, it is essential that MRE projects do not harm valuable and often fragile marine populations, habitats, and systems in the oceans. The responsible development of the MRE industry is informed by science-based understanding of the potential effects of MRE installations worldwide.
This Short Science Summary was developed based on the OES-Environmental 2024 State of the Science Report: Environmental Effects of Marine Renewable Energy Development Around the World, specifically Chapter 1: Marine Renewable Energy and Ocean Energy Systems.