The new federal designation means energy-tech developers may apply to test wave energy technology in the open waters off Avila Beach.
Ben Ruttenberg is the Director for the Center for Coastal Marine Sciences at Cal Poly. He says there are about 50 other facilities working with the US Department of Energy's Testing Expertise and Access to Marine Energy Research Program, but none of them offer an open-water research pier.
“They don't have the ability to deploy equipment in open waters that have some wave activity. And so in that sense, we are a really nice addition,” said Ruttenberg.
Ruttenberg also says that no testing has been done although there have been several conversations with interested parties.
Once applicants have been selected, CalPoly students and faculty will have opportunities for hands-on collaboration.
