Date of Award

Spring 2015

First Advisor

Dr. Andrew Welke

Abstract

The United States relies mainly on fossil fuels to meet its energy demand, but it is beginning to look into renewable energy alternatives. One such alternative is hydrokinetic technology, which captures the kinetic energy found in waves, tides and currents. Although initially hampered by regulatory uncertainty and low government backing, hydrokinetic technology is now gaining traction within the United States. Improved regulations and government laws are promoting research and development in the field, which will lead to more projects. This paper performs an impact analysis of an increased number of hydrokinetic energy projects as a result of reduced regulatory uncertainty and increased government backing, focusing on the impacts on the environment and the economy.

Recommended Citation

McHugh, Joseph, "An Impact Analysis of Increased Hydrokinetic Electricity Generation in the United States" (2015). Senior Honors Projects. 65.
https://collected.jcu.edu/honorspapers/65