Supports efforts to study the feasibility of generating clean electricity via low-flow hydro-turbines attached below the water line to piers of existing county-owned bridges in the Willamette River.  Low-flow hydro electricity is a potential sector of future business growth that could have applications around the country.  Funds would help determine the optimal size, number and placement of hydro-electric turbines, and the amount of electrical power that could be generated from this clean and constant source of energy.  The study would compare generation costs to grid power, other renewable power generation technologies, and the cost of Renewable Energy Credits.  In addition, the county will consult with local authorities to determine requirements for carrying out work in navigable water ways and protecting local fish and wildlife.

Amount Requested: $150,000

Address: 501 SE Hawthorne, Suite 600, Portland, OR  97215