Watch CBS News

Experimental Tidal Turbines In East River To Be Replaced As Part Of Roosevelt Island Tidal Energy Project

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Tuesday, we got a glimpse of how renewable energy systems could eventually operate in New York City.

Three experimental tidal turbines were retrieved from the East River.

The turbines, which measure more than 16 feet in diameter, will be replaced Wednesday by new ones.

It's part of the Roosevelt Island Tidal Energy Project.

"The purpose really is to demonstrate the new generation five technology and the fact that the components work so well together, and in fact, we've demonstrated that already in the first six months by producing 40 percent more energy than we had forecast, which is very exciting," said John Banigan, chairman and CEO of Verdant Power.

Project officials say this effort is a critical step forward for the marine renewable energy industry.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.