Researchers believe energy generated from waves on the Great Lakes can provide clean power to residents on a remote northern Michigan island. Demonstrations of the new technology were held on Beaver Island at the Central Michigan University Biological Station on Saturday.
University of Michigan Researchers worked with locals for three years to build the prototypes. They take advantage of kinetic energy generated by waves to create electricity.
Researchers say oceans are mostly too large and too corrosive for early testing and the size and composition Great Lakes provide a more favorable environment.
“The Green Lakes is fresh water. The corrosion is not that bad compared with the ocean. So, it is the ideal greenhouse,” said Lei Zuo, the lead researcher on the project.
The project worked closely with residents of Beaver Island, who have unique energy leads. Beaver Island has to rely on underground cables which are prone to extended blackouts restoring power and can be an arduous task.
“We want to start with the community first to understand the community's need, then develop the technology to meet the need,” Zuo said.
The wave energy project was supported in part by a $3.6 million dollar grant from the National Science Foundation.
