WASHINGTON - A SEATTLE company is hoping to convert the motion of the ocean into electricity.

Grays Harbour Ocean Energy Company has asked the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission for permits to harness energy from waves off the coastline of six states.

In all, the company would build seven harnessing sites - in federal waters off California, Hawaii, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York and Rhode Island - each covering about 100 square miles (260 square kilometres).

Taken together, Grays Harbor said the US$28 billion (S$42.56 billion) project would be the largest renewable energy project in the US.

The firm expects to pay for the project largely with private investment, but is also seeking federal help.

In a Dec 3 letter to FERC officials, Grays Harbour president Burton Hamner said the company's plan would 'help federal agencies develop effective agreements regarding management of ocean renewable energy projects'.

However, the permits can expect to face a long, complex government approval process. FERC spokesman Celeste Miller said on Friday there is a 60-day public comment period on the proposals that began on Nov 28.

Though the Grays Harbour applications are for wave power only, the sites could also support wind turbines that would require additional government approval.

Already, wind turbines have been a topic of controversy in Massachusetts.

For several years, Cape Wind Associates has been trying to build a wind farm in Nantucket Sound, north of Nantucket island.

Critics say the proposed 130-turbine wind farm is an environmental hazard and will mar pristine views of Nantucket Sound. Supporters say it is one of the most promising US renewable energy projects. -- AP