The proposed United States federal budget could provide $59 million for marine and hydrokinetic (MHK) technology research should the Congress pass the bipartisan agreement.
The $1 trillion spending package that would keep the federal government funded until September 30, or the end of current fiscal year, includes the proposition to allocate $2.1 billion for US Department of Energy’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE).
The agreement provides $59 million for marine and hydrokinetic technology research, development, and deployment.
Out of that, $30 million is provided for design, procurement, and construction for the recently awarded open-water wave energy test facility off Oregon.
Also, the agreement directs the Energy Department to continue competitive solicitations for a balanced portfolio of industry-led research, development, and deployment of ocean, river, and tidal energy conversion components and systems.
In that regard, the agreement proposes allocating not less than $4 million to support collaborations between universities, the previously designated Marine Renewable Energy Centers, and the National Laboratories.
In addition, the Department of Energy is also directed to continue its coordination with the US Navy on marine energy technology demonstration.