An untapped renewable energy source exists in the world’s oceans. It is estimated that if 0.2 percent of the oceans’ untapped energy were to be harnessed, it would provide power sufficient for the entire world. At Oregon State University - Cascades next Science Pub on Tuesday, January 18, Ted K.A. Brekken, an assistant professor in energy systems at OSU’s College of Engineering, will explore how ocean wave power has the potential to become a new, reliable and clean source of affordable renewable energy.

Brekken received his bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees from the University of Minnesota in 1999, 2002, and 2005 respectively. He studied electric vehicle motor design at Postech in Pohang, South Korea in 1999. He also studied wind turbine control at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Trondheim, Norway from 2004 to 2005 on a Fulbright scholarship. His research interests include control, power electronics and electric drives; specifically digital control techniques applied to renewable energy systems. He is co-director of the Wallace Energy Systems and Renewables Facility. Dr. Brekken is a recipient of the National Science Foundation Career award.

Reservations are required for the popular Science Pub lectures. Science Pubs take place from 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for networking and food and beverage service, and the presentation begins at 6:00 p.m. Science Pubs are sponsored by OSU-Cascades and are free and open to community members, and limited to 100 guests. Participants must RSVP at info@osucascades.edu or 541-322-3100. For information call 541-322-3100.