An Assessment of the Hydrokinetic Energy Resource of the Florida Current

Available ocean model and physically measured data from the Florida Current are analyzed to provide a detailed assessment of the hydrokinetic energy resource of the Florida Current, in support of harnessing a portion of it using ocean energy conversion devices. It has been estimated that approximately 25 GW of hydrokinetic power is available in the Florida Current. Fluctuations in this energy resource are described. Based on the analysis, realistic parameters governing where hydrokinetic energy extraction devices-turbines-may be ideally installed are discussed. An energy resource assessment methodology that has been developed is described. It can be used as a design tool for implementation of arrays of ocean energy extraction devices.