First tidal energy generator in the US to be installed next week

New York Times : Ocean Renewable Power Company’s experimental tidal energy generator is expected to begin operating in September. Located in the Bay of Fundy off the coast of Maine, the generator will produce 180 kilowatts, enough energy to power 30 houses. The helical turbine produces only one-sixth the energy of a normal wind turbine, however ocean currents are more dependable than wind, and it doesn’t obstruct lines of sight, a common complaint against wind generators. The full project is scheduled for completion by 2016 and will generate enough energy to power 1500 homes.