Massachusetts might have released a draft of its “Ocean Plan”, but it has been highlighted that this initiative is not enough for the development of tidal power.

On May 28, 2008, Governor Deval Patrick signed the Massachusetts Oceans Act of 2008, which directed the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs to develop a comprehensive management plan to serve as the basis for the protection and sustainable use of ocean and coastal waters. The Oceans Act of 2008 requires the Secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs to develop a comprehensive ocean management plan. Final promulgation of the plan is to be done by December 31, 2009.

In an article contributed by Ronald W. Ruth, managing partner of Sherin and Lodgen and co-chair of the Environmental Law Group (published by Mass High Tech), it has been mentioned that the bias toward wind projects reflects a commitment to development of alternative energy resources. But renewable energy projects, such as wave and tidal power generation, while mentioned in the draft plan, are not treated as immediate concerns.

Ruth has urged companies and industry groups to actively get involved in the coming hearings. This might be crucial for those who eventually hope to benefit from Massachusetts’ new ocean zoning.

A a section of Draft Massachusetts Ocean Management Plan says: “Renewable Energy Areas are places specifically designated for commercial wind energy facilities, in recognition of the need to provide opportunity for renewable energy generation at a meaningful scale, but to do so with careful regard for potential environmental impacts. While other renewable energy technologies are allowed in these areas, it does not appear that commercial-scale opportunities for wave or tidal energy exist in the areas given currently available technology.”

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Massachusetts: http://social.tidaltoday.com/search/node/Massachusetts