Free Flow Energy provides services in support of the development of marine renewable energy. Our services include resource assessment, site data acquisition and analysis, environmental review, equipment evaluation, economic analysis, proposal preparation, permitting and licensing support, public outreach assistance, training, and facility implementation oversight. We support the developers, investors, municipalities, and resource owners involved in or impacted by tidal, in-stream, and wave energy initiatives.

Incorporated in New Hampshire, Free Flow Energy also has an office in Maine and a representative in Massachusetts.

Technically Qualified Development & Implementation

A partnership of engineers with experience in hydroenergy, oceanography, instrumentation, environmental assessment, structural analysis, marine project management, renewable technologies, energy regulations, public involvement, and training, Free Flow Energy coalesced during 2007.

Through our experiences with hydroenergy initiatives, we were acutely aware that much of the data currently presented on hydroenergy resource potential was (and still is) based on gross and often unverified estimates. We recognized the need for a technically qualified organization to work with waterfront landowners and abutters and with hydroenergy developers to obtain and interpret accurate data on tidal, in-stream, and wave energy resources. We also recognized the need to properly evaluate environmental impact, conversion equipment, and project cost-benefit; to engage all stakeholders; and to understand the regulatory process.

With a shared commitment to the thoughtful and proper development and implementation of hydroenergy, we knew that by collaborating we could maximize the advantages of our skills and experiences. The result – this unique engineering consultancy, Free Flow Energy.

Objective Assessment & Regulatory Support

As engineers committed to the effective and environmentally sensitive development of hydroenergy resources, we understand the need to realistically evaluate the long-term potential of targeted resources, to identify environmental and other siting issues, to objectively review engineering implications, and to honestly assess economic feasibility – all before sizable investments are made in projects. Also, we know that promising projects will need expert assistance to meet Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) requirements for permitting and licensing, as well as to comply with the regulations of state and local organizations. For projects that proceed to implementation, we recognize the need for effective construction, operation, and maintenance support – as well as productive partnerships with communities and other stakeholders.

Pre-regulatory Assessments

Before owners and/or developers enter the lengthy and costly processes of permitting and licensing, Free Flow Energy can aid with site surveying, instrument analysis, energy and power potential assessment, cost-benefit analysis, conversion technology evaluations/recommendations, and go/no-go determinations – as well as guidance on protecting a resource from development. In addition, Free Flow Energy can help clients identify and apply for relevant renewable energy funding opportunities and incentives.

These services are of particular value to municipalities, states, and landowners abutting swift moving water resources, as well as to resource developers.

Regulatory – Permitting Phase

Free Flow Energy can provide direction and assistance in preparing documents required by regulatory agencies – including FERC, the Materials Management Service (MMS), the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) – and by other stakeholder organizations and individuals. We will execute a comprehensive plan of action with appropriate and achievable timelines and milestones. Testing and analysis will be performed and reported as required.

We also can provide public outreach assistance – specifically, hearing and addressing the concerns of abutters and those groups potentially impacted by development of a resource.

Regulatory – Licensure Phase

Free Flow Energy can perform project management and oversight as required throughout implementation, construction, and operation.

Experience, Skill, Commitment

The staff of Free Flow Energy offers a broad display of integrated expertise and support services to the emerging hydrokinetics field. Enthusiastically committed to tidal, in-stream, and wave energy development, we are capable of responding to client needs quickly and cost effectively.