The U.S. Department of Energy says it will make up to $7.5 million available for research into harnessing the energy potential of oceans, tides and rivers.

Water covers more than 70 percent of the Earth's surface, said Andy Karsner, the department's assistant secretary for energy efficiency and renewable energy. Using environmentally responsible technologies, we have a tremendous opportunity to … further our energy security and help meet the president's goal to stop greenhouse gas emissions growth by 2025.

Department officials said successful applicants will be required to develop collaborative project teams involving at least one other industry, university or national laboratory partner. A minimum 50 percent non-federal cost sharing is required.

The department said it also plans to award grants to university-led groups to conduct advanced research on marine renewable energy, including technology testing, experimental and numerical modeling, wave forecasting, environmental impacts and corrosion-resistant materials research.

Grant applications are due June 16. The department said it would select up to 17 awards.

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