Funds earmarked for offshore wind research

Oregon State University has secured a $2.5 million federal grant earmarked for offshore wind energy research.

The funding allotment is among the $6.2 million in grants awarded by the Department of Energy for early-stage research and development projects reducing environmental compliance costs and impacts of land-based and offshore wind energy.

“If we want to curb climate chaos and remain an economic force in the world, we must invest in research and development for the most cutting-edge energy technology,” said Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-OR), who joined Sen. Ron Wyden (D-OR) in announcing the award. “I’ve climbed to the top of a wind turbine and witnessed their power—not only powering the electric grid with clean energy, but also powering local economies with jobs. This investment in research is good for our planet and good for our communities.”

Officials said technologies reducing the impact to bats, birds and other wildlife can lead to less curtailment when wind turbines have to be shut down.

“It’s time to kick the carbon habit, and that means promoting innovation in clean, renewable energy,” Wyden said. “Investments like these are exactly what’s needed to transition the United States away from the dirty energy relics of yesteryear and into the future.”

Oregon State University will design, build and test an autonomous monitoring system to accurately detect bird and bat collisions with offshore wind turbines. The system will combine microphones and 360-degree cameras with analysis software to detect and verify impacts.