The Pacific Marine Energy Center (PMEC) has released its 2020 Strategic Plan to guide the direction of the Center over the next several years.
First established in 2008, PMEC's mission to responsibly advance marine renewable energy grows more vital each year. With over a hundred affiliated faculty, staff and students spread across its three campuses - the University of Washington, Oregon State University, and the University of Alaska Fairbanks - PMEC represents the largest cluster of marine energy research in the Americas and a scale of activity comparable to the largest in the world.
"Among the updates in the 2020 plan is a new vision statement for PMEC, 'Connecting People to the Power of the Ocean'," notes PMEC Director Brian Polagye. "That idea really underscores our feeling that if we want to overcome the barriers that are keeping us from utilizing marine renewable energy sources in a cost-effective and responsible way, it'll require a collective and concerted effort with a broad base of support. It's just not something that can be done by a small group or individuals."
The 2020 Strategic Plan's purpose is to ensure, to the greatest extent possible, PMEC’s continued sustainability, relevance and impact. The plan describes PMEC's organizational structure as well as details about the Center's research & development, testing facilities, education & training, and outreach & engagement efforts.
The plan concludes with a set of five 5-year strategic goals:
Build momentum behind a credible vision for the future of marine energy in the U.S.
Support a pipeline of companies stretching from early stage developers to mature technology suppliers.
Lead disruptive innovation in installation, operation, and maintenance.
Ensure a positive experience for students engaged in PMEC’s mission.
Diversify funding and identify pathways for faculty to build careers focused on advancing marine energy.
If you have any questions about the 2020 Strategic Plan or want to learn more about the Center, please contact us.