NC Report: Sea Power – How the South’s Offshore & Nearshore Winds Can Serve Peak Demand

Electric utilities in the southeast usually experience high-demand peak electrical demand during the summertime. To supply power at peak demand, utilities may rely on more expensive power plants, like combustion natural gas turbines. However, a natural phenomenon in coastal and offshore areas may help supplant these higher cost peaking power plants. The Sea Breeze Effect occurs when cool ocean air rushes inland where warmer air is rising; this effect is prominent on hot summer afternoons when utility load demands are high. A webinar and blog post are available, in addition to reports from Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina. Published Sept 2013.

Guest Blog | September 13, 2013 | Reports and Fact Sheets North Carolina Sea Power