The Snohomish County PUD No. 1 in Washington has further advanced in its intent to build and operate a tidal energy project in the Admirarty Inlet. Earlier this week, the PUD filed its draft license application with FERC.

Following a Memorandum of Understanding in April 2009, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and the Minerals Management Service s(MMS) have issued a guidance document that clarifies a lot of the process and jurisdictional questions regarding development of hydrokinetic projects on the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS).

After months of row between FERC and Mineral MMS under the DOI over jurisdiction over renewable energy projects on the Outer Continental Shelf, the two agencies signed a MOU yesterday that clarifies each agency's roles and responsibilities.

Finavera Renewables, the first licensee for a wave energy project, has surrendered its license before the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

Through a letter sent last week, the Department of Interior (DOI) has requested FERC for a rehearing of the decision to issue an amended license that allows for operation of hydrokinetic project on the Mississippi river in Hastings, Minnesota.

With interest in marine and hydrokinetic energy development in the US rapidly rising, the Department of Energy has developed a database of existing and potential projects.

Through a license amendment to an existing project, the FERC has approved installation of hydrokinetic turbines at the Mississippi Lock and Dam Project #2 in Hastings, Minnesota.

Environmental and recreation groups, energy developers and utilities, investors and academics present Obama Administration with a set of "Joint Principles" to guide the development of ocean renewable energy -- energy from waves, tidal and ocean current.

In a letter issued to Tidewater Associates on November 3, FERC has determined that tidal barrage projects do not qualify for a hydrokinetic pilot license but will have to obtain license as conventional hydropower.

President Bush signed a bill today that extends tax credit for renewable energy sources, including qualifying hydropower, by two more years.