Newco renewables developer OceanBased Perpetual Energy (OPE) has signed a memorandum of understanding with Florida Atlantic University and the Georgia Institute of Technology that will re-launch a long-gestating project angling to harness the vast energy potential of the Gulf Stream in a stretch of deep water just off the Sunshine State.

The development, which would use in-stream-style tidal turbines moored in waters of some 1,100 feet (335 metres) deep to produce “24/7 energy throughout the year”, is slated to kick-off as early as next year with installation of a $10m pilot at a site 5-20 miles (8-32km) offshore.