City of Lake Worth Beach Partners with FAU’s Southeast National Marine Renewable Energy Center on Groundbreaking Ocean Current Energy Initiative

LAKE WORTH BEACH, Florida – The City of Lake Worth Beach is proud to announce its partnership with Florida Atlantic University’s Southeast National Marine Renewable Energy Center (SNMREC) in a transformative project focused on renewable ocean energy. Supported by an $800,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Water Power Technologies Office, this initiative is set to elevate Palm Beach County as a leader in clean energy innovation.

The project centers on a feasibility study for establishing the nation’s first offshore ocean current energy test facility in Palm Beach County. With SNMREC leading a team of experts—including the City of Lake Worth Beach Electric Utility, 3U Technologies, 48 North Solutions, IDOM Incorporated, Braid Theory, and the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC)—this initiative marks a new chapter for renewable energy.

 

“Partnering on this visionary blue energy project aligns with Lake Worth Beach’s commitment to sustainability and innovation,” said Ed Liberty, the Director of Electric Utilities at the City of Lake Worth Beach. “The City is uniquely positioned to support the testing and deployment of ocean current technologies, which have the potential to provide clean energy to millions.”

Florida’s coastal conditions make it ideal for harnessing ocean currents, which are abundant, predictable, and consistently available—key attributes for utility-scale renewable energy. By collaborating on this project, Lake Worth Beach and its partners aim to lay the groundwork for transforming ocean currents into a viable source of clean energy, fostering regional job creation, and promoting energy independence.

The City of Lake Worth Beach’s electric utility will play a critical role, providing expertise for grid compatibility and shoreside infrastructure, a step towards real-world application of ocean current energy technologies. Additionally, 3U Technologies, IDOM, 48 North, and Braid Theory will contribute expertise in systems specifications, permitting, economic impact analysis, and environmental assessment.

Through this initiative, SNMREC aims to enhance the competitiveness of U.S. marine energy technology, catalyze domestic manufacturing, and support the clean energy transition. With Lake Worth Beach’s partnership, this project represents a critical step in realizing a sustainable, energy-resilient future.

About Lake Worth Beach

Lake Worth Beach is a dynamic coastal city located in Palm Beach County, Florida, known for its vibrant arts scene, historic charm, and beautiful coastline. Committed to fostering a sustainable and inclusive community, Lake Worth Beach is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for all its residents. For more information on the City of Lake Worth Beach visit https://lakeworthbeachfl.gov.