The US Can Still Make Tidal Energy Happen

The article "The US Can Still Make Tidal Energy Happen" highlights the renewed interest and potential for tidal energy as a reliable, carbon-free power source in the United States. Historically used for over 1,500 years, tidal energy had been overshadowed by fossil fuels but is now gaining attention amid the global decarbonization movement. The U.S. federal government, despite a 2025 energy emergency declaration that favored certain renewables like wind and solar less, has included tidal energy within its broader support for reliable, dispatchable clean energy sources such as hydropower, biomass, and geothermal. The Department of Energy emphasizes that even capturing a fraction of the U.S.'s vast marine energy potential could significantly contribute to the nation’s electricity needs and provide clean, local power. While other countries like the UK are advancing rapidly in tidal energy development, the U.S. has been slower to commercialize this resource. Notable projects include Washington State’s OPALCO demonstration using technology from Scotland