FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 23, 2010

Contact: Michael Cox (503) 986-1904

 

 

SALEM – The House today passed HB 3633, which sets forth planning for potential development of hydrokinetic energy.  House Democrats are committed to investing in alternative energy technology to make Oregon a center of the growing clean industry while creating high-skill, high-wage jobs.

 

The bill calls for the Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development to commission a study to compile existing information and collect new data that will assist in understanding how renewable energy development will affect local coastal communities.  These energy sources include tidal energy, ocean thermal energy and wave energy.  The Territorial Sea Plan Advisory Committee will review the study and make recommendations to the Legislature for further action.

 

“Investments in wave energy could pay huge dividends for the coastal economy,” said Representative Deborah Boone (D-Cannon Beach), the bill’s chief sponsor.  “Clean energy from hydrokinetic sources will create good jobs while protecting our coastline from the dangers posed by fossil fuels.”

 

“We believe that it is essential to thoroughly vet this information with local stakeholders and existing ocean users in order to give all stakeholders a voice in decision-making,” said Rep. Boone.

 

HB 3633 now moves the Senate for consideration.

 

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