The PowerBuoy system was deployed in October 2008 at the offshore site approximately one mile off the coast, in 100ft (30m) of water depth. During initial commissioning tests the power produced was in line with predicted levels. This additional contract award will primarily support the continuing upgrades and testing of the PowerBuoy, for improved ocean durability. Throughout the project, the US Navy has maintained a direct involvement and has monitored progress made by the Company.
The Hawaii project is for the installation, testing and grid connection of successive PowerBuoys off the Marine Corps Base in Hawaii at Kaneohe Bay and has received strong support from the Hawaii and New Jersey congressional delegations. The project will utilize local Hawaiian subcontractors for the installation, test and servicing of the systems. OPT will also be working on the project with Sound and Sea Technology, who will review the system upgrades.
Previously, the OPT wave power project underwent an extensive environmental assessment by an independent engineering company which featured evaluation of potential impacts on the seabed; fish, organisms and mammals; vegetation; and sea quality. This resulted in a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI).
