Galen Hare
Published on June 8, 2023
World Oceans Day, observed annually on June 8th, serves as a global celebration of the ocean’s beauty, significance, and the vital role it plays in sustaining life on Earth. This day provides an opportunity to raise awareness about the pressing issues facing our oceans and the urgent need for their conservation. As we celebrate today, we must acknowledge the role the ocean can play in crafting a sustainable future. There is a multifaceted relationship between the ocean and renewable energy sources.
The world’s oceans cover over 70% of our planet’s surface and play an indispensable role in regulating climate, supporting biodiversity, and providing resources for human well-being. They act as the Earth’s largest carbon sink, absorbing vast amounts of carbon dioxide and mitigating climate change. Renewable energy sources offer a viable alternative to fossil fuels, addressing the urgent need to combat climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The ocean, with its immense power, presents a treasure trove of renewable energy possibilities.
There is strong interest in offshore wind technologies and the CCREEE is in discussions with development partners to implement an offshore wind project towards the deployment of a pilot in the region.
The ocean’s tides, caused by the gravitational pull of the moon and the sun, offer a renewable energy source. Tidal energy conversion involves capturing the kinetic energy generated by the movement of tides and converting it into electricity. Tidal power plants, usually located in coastal areas, have the advantage of predictability and consistency, making them a reliable source of renewable energy. We in the CARICOM region are fortunate that most economic activity is in close proximity to our coastlines that can be used for this purpose.
The ocean’s waves also possess tremendous kinetic energy. By utilizing wave energy converters, this energy can be harnessed and converted into electricity. Although wave energy technologies such as over toppers and attenuators are still in the development phase, they hold significant promise for generating clean, sustainable power.
The temperature difference between the ocean’s surface and its deeper layers holds immense potential for renewable energy generation. OTEC systems exploit this temperature gradient to produce electricity. By leveraging the ocean’s thermal properties, OTEC provides a continuous and sustainable source of energy, especially in tropical regions.
Integrating renewable energy technologies with responsible ocean management ensures minimal ecological impact. Proper planning and monitoring help safeguard marine habitats, preserve biodiversity, and maintain the overall health of the ocean ecosystem.
World Oceans Day serves as a reminder of the vital connection between the ocean and renewable energy. The sustainable harnessing of the ocean’s resources can provide a path towards a cleaner, greener future. By capitalizing on offshore wind and solar, tidal power, wave energy, and ocean thermal energy conversion, we can reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, mitigate climate change, and support sustainable economic development. It is imperative that we celebrate and protect our oceans while embracing the transformative potential of renewable energy, ensuring a harmonious coexistence between human progress and the preservation of our planet’s most precious resource. Learn more about ocean energy technologies at https://cekh.ccreee.org/cekh_resources/marine-energy-resource-assessment-and-project-development-2/
