Two firms are looking at the Niagara River as a means to generate power through the emerging technology of hydrokinetic power generation, reports The Buffalo News [1].

The turbines would be mounted on the river bottom.This technology harnesses river currents and waves to spin turbines located on the river bottom. Unlike conventional hydropower, hydrokinetic power does not require dams or water intake systems. The fledgling industry bills itself as extremely environmentally friendly, as it requires minimal land-based equipment, and links to power grids or specific end-users through traditional power lines.

If built as proposed, the systems could produce about 2,700 kilowatts of electricity per year, about one-tenth the power created by the Niagara Power Project [2].

The Free Flow Power Corp [3] of Houston and Hydro Green of Gloucester, Massachusetts believe the Niagara's flow characteristics may fit their criteria. Both firms have filed applications with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission [4] and are seeking preliminary permits to allow them to conduct environmental and feasibility studies over the next three years. It is unlikely any system could be up and running before 2013.

Environmental group Buffalo Niagara Riverkeeper [5] is cautious about the proposals, saying there is a limited track record, and that care must be made to avoid impacting local fish populations.