The Turning Tides

Before, when I heard the phrase alternative energy I thought of Dutch windmills or Willie Nelson's tour bus burning Bio-diesel - among other substances.

So, I hopped on the Internet to expand my alternative energy knowledge and quickly came across experiments dealing with Tidal Energy.

These studies examined methods of harnessing clean power through the predicable movements of rivers and tides. Some of this technology has been put into use by Europeans since the 1960's, but their dam-style technology poses environmental and navigational problems , since the obstructive barrage system cuts off shipping routes and alters the natural ecosystem.

However, new underwater turbines (think giant pinwheels) are being tested to see if green energy can be generated, without harming the environment or trade routes. And to my surprise - they are going on a few miles away from me as I write.

Last December, Verdant, an independent power company, began a trial of two new underwater turbines in the East River. The current of the river generated enough energy to power a Gristedes Supermarket that was connected to the hydro-generators.

Despite this positive trial, Verdant faces a number of problems. First, if these turbines turn out to be giant fish blenders, environmentalists are going to flip out. Second, the company plans on installing around 300 turbines, and that much friction could alter river currents. Finally, they must deal with the violent and corrosive waters of the East River itself.

In fact, the strong currents damaged the turbines soon after they went into water.
(The New York Times has put together a great multimedia report about Verdant’s project and the dilemmas they face)

However, with enough time and resources – Verdant might generate enough green energy to power all the Gristedes in NYC, and maybe even a few Daune Reades as well.