Marine renewable energy (MRE) generators, such as wave energy converters, pose minimal impact to marine life, according to a new report.
MREs deployed to date have had zero collisions with marine mammals, fish, or seabirds, found the 2020 State of the Science report, released by Ocean Energy Systems (OES).
The study found there was no evidence of harm from underwater noise from operational devices or electromagnetic fields emitted from electric cables.
It also highlighted there have been no significant changes in habitat caused by MRE devices, while potential changes to oceanographic systems or entanglement of marine animals with mooring systems or cables pose “very low” risks.
The report was compiled from desk research by marine scientists from around the world over the past four years who reviewed numerous studies and other data on the possible environmental effects of MRE devices.
They found that the potential impact to marine life is “likely small or undetectable”.
The scientists say there is “still uncertainty around some issues”, as there have been relatively few sizable deployments of MRE devices around the world where data can be collected.
Marine renewable power is generated from ocean waves, tides, and currents as well as ocean temperature and salinity gradients, and the flow of large rivers.
The report can help MRE developers consider how to design, site and operate devices; avoid any impacts to marine animals and environments; provide information to government regulators; and inform the broader research community of the latest findings.
OES chair Henry Jeffrey said: “This project, supported by the OES, reveals the latest thinking about the interaction of ocean energy technologies with the environment and I strongly encourage its use to help streamline consenting processes and support the responsible development of ocean energy around the world.”
The 2020 State of the Science report was produced by OES-Environmental, and is supported by the International Energy Agency (IEA).
The report’s release coincided with World Oceans Day and with US President Donald Trump’s proclamation of June as National Ocean Month.
US Department of Energy Pacific Northwest National Laboratory oceanographer and lead author of the report Andrea Copping said: “We believe that small numbers of operational marine energy devices are unlikely to cause harm to marine animals, including marine mammals, fish, diving seabirds, and benthic animals; change habitats on the seafloor or in the water significantly; or change the natural flow of ocean waters or waves.”
The 30 scientists who authored the report investigated potential stressors, including underwater noise, electromagnetic fields, changes in oceanographic processes, including circulation, wave height, sediment transport patterns, water quality, and marine food webs, encounters with moorings and cables and the risk of a marine mammal or fish colliding with a device.
Copping added: “Despite our findings, we still need more data about what might, or might not, happen to animals swimming close to operating turbines underwater.
“In the years to come, we will continue to focus our research on examining this issue and building our knowledge base to help progress this important renewable energy industry.”
The report was funded by DoE’s Water Power Technologies Office and OES.