BUZZARDS BAY – A first of its kind tidal energy device will be installed this week in the Cape Cod Canal.
The Marine Renewable Energy Collaborative project will use a 3 meter turbine to generate energy from the tidal flow through the canal.
Water velocity in the canal has been measured at over 4 knots making it the ideal location to test the hydro-energy technology.
The structure is expected to have a maximum output of 100 kilowatts.
The testing site will be located on the mainland side of the canal near the railroad bridge well outside of the commercial channel.
The site will consist of a steel test structure with two pilings joined together by a bridge which can be raised and lowered with the affixed turbine.
The turbine is expected to be fully installed by the end of the week.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers granted final regulatory approval for the project last month.