Connecting tidal energy to the grid
Verdant Power and 3U Technologies are evaluating the technical and economic options for connecting a utility-scale tidal array in Long Island Sound to the New York electricity grid. The work examines subsea and terrestrial cables, landfall options, and substation integration.
A distinct study advancing LISTEP
This TEAMER-supported study is a separate engineering project within the wider development pathway for the Long Island Sound Tidal Energy Project. It builds on the Stage 2 resource assessment completed by Pacific Northwest National Laboratory through TEAMER RFTS 13 and will inform investment decisions for the proposed tidal development.
Grid-interconnection scope
The RFTS 18 study examines subsea and terrestrial cabling, subsea connections, potential power-consolidation systems, cable landfall, installation requirements, operations and maintenance, and integration with onshore infrastructure. The aim is to evaluate the system needed to transmit electricity from tidal energy converters to the New York State grid.
Engineering for phased development
3U Technologies is developing system requirements, comparing engineering alternatives, identifying supply-chain options, and preparing cost and risk analyses. The work supports a proposed initial deployment of approximately 7 MW, with provision for future expansion of LISTEP to as much as 30 MW. These are development plans rather than installed capacity.
Outputs for the next investment decision
Expected outputs include system requirements and specifications, a risk matrix, preliminary cost and schedule estimates, supply-chain considerations, and a business-case analysis. Together, these will help Verdant assess the technical and commercial path toward utility-scale deployment.