Clean Current's tidal turbine (conceptual view).

Alstom Hydro has signed a licensing cooperation agreement with Clean Current Power Systems Inc (from Canada), for use of Clean Current's patented technology. The agreement include provisions for continued cooperation of both companies on durther technology development and demonstration project deployment. Alstom will eventually position itself as the equipment and turnkey provider for tidal stream farms. Alstom plans to commercialize the technology by 2012.

Tidal power is very important emerging renewable energy technology, and according to some has the potential to produce about 100 TWh annually on the world-wide scale. Apart from its potential, it is also a clean, environmentally friendly technology, and it's completely predictable and a relatively stable source of energy.