About us

Who we are

Canadian based and operational since 2008, Instream Energy Systems (IES) is a pioneering developer of hydrokinetic systems for tidal and inland waterways offering abundant, predictable, clean power.

Instream’s scalable vertical-axis hydrokinetic turbines (VAHTs), efficiently convert the kinetic energy in moving water into cost-competitive, renewable electricity with minimal environmental impact.

With proof of performance since 2009, Instream is proud to be contributing towards the creation of a sustainable, secure and clean energy future.

Our Approach

Instream’s vision is to lead the industry in hydrokinetic solutions for tidal and inland waterways through a multi-faceted approach – focusing on R&D, partnerships, sustainability and community.

Instream holds its company to the highest standards of research and development with over $30M in its patented technology and a strategic partnership with BAE Systems. Instream’s technology stems from a decade of continuous R&D in engineering, performance, manufacturing, efficiency and environmental impact. IES premium partnerships are a key factor in the continued growth and success of its vision for clean energy production.

Instream’s strategic partners play a crucial role in bringing value to the business by supporting a collaborative environment, leveraging complementary strengths, and contributing to overall growth and success.

These partnerships have a significant impact on various aspects of Instream’s value proposition including innovation, market reach, operational efficiency, and financial performance. These alliances serve as a key differentiator and are pivotal in advancing its position in the hydrokinetic business channel and achieving success in clean energy production.

Instream is committed to environmental protection and stewardship. Working towards a cleaner, greener future of energy production for all, Instream technology is ready to be leveraged to reduce carbon emissions across the globe. By ensuring as little environmental impact as possible, Instream is proud to produce a power solution deemed benign to fish and other aquatic wildlife (Electric Power Research Institute, 2011).

Instream strives to learn from, respect, and support the communities and cultures where IES technology is deployed. The implementation of IES technology offers boundless opportunities to provide clean energy to remote communities. A powered community is an empowered community – access to clean, dependable, abundant energy transforms possibilities and potential.

Our Story

2008

Instream is founded by Ken Miller, whose strategic relationship with BAE Systems leverages their hydrodynamics, marine systems, information technology, system modeling, and design experience with Instream.

2009/2010

Instream deploys the world’s first array of vertical-axis hydrokinetic turbines in Duncan Dam’s dam outflow, located in British Columbia, Canada. This project was developed through collaboration with B.C. Hydro, Powertech, and local Indigenous Groups.

2012

Instream becomes the first company to receive a multi-year site facility-use agreement for a hydrokinetic power project with the United States Bureau of Reclamation (USBR). Ongoing research continues at Roza Canal (Yakima, WA) with support from Sandia National Labs and other research partners.

2013-2016

Facilitation of a series of R&D projects spanning operational, environmental, engineering and electrical control resulting in validation evidence, intellectual property, and preventative maintenance insights for reliable, safe, and responsible deployments.

An image of floating platform designed and built to support Instream Energy’s tidal turbines.

2017

With support from Innovate UK, ITPEnergised and Leask Marine, Instream builds the Marinus platform, implementing bi-direction cross-flow tidal turbines. This platform will be deployed in 2023 to support environmental monitoring of a tidal power demonstration zone offshore of Anglesey, Wales.

2021

Instream Energy Systems ramps up global commercialization strategy.

2023

Instream’s multi-disciplined international leadership team works collaboratively with local government in Guyana and supports local businesses.

At Instream Energy Systems, our leadership is dedicated to powering change and steering the course towards a greener future. Committed to clean energy solutions, our leadership team drives innovation and sustainability in the energy sector. Discover the vision and expertise that guide Instream Energy Systems toward a cleaner, more sustainable tomorrow.

William Whitt

Board Chair, President & CEO

Kenneth Miller

Secretary

James Hawse

Vice President & Treasurer