Chris Sauer, Ocean Renewable Power Co.

Sauer is developing two tidal power projects in western Maine with Ocean Renewable Power. He cites excellent relationships with the local community, the Passamaquoddy Tribe, and the economic development potential (which is particularly important is rural eastern Maine - Washington Co. is Maine's poorest county).

Sauer also refers to the complications of regulation. Most significantly, he says, the complicated regulatory framework creates uncertainty for investors, and makes venture capital funding especially difficult to acquire. Ocean Renewable Power, as a tidal power development company, is involved in both technological research and development (refining new tidal technology) and in developing commercial power projects in the Bay of Fundy.

He also thanks and cites the helpfulness and collaboration received from Maine's DEP and the Army Corps of Engineers. "We were able to obtain permits in record time."

Sauer closed his presentation with a video of his company's first tidal turbine in Eastport.

No comments: