The University of Georgia's Marine Institute on Sapelo Island has been the site of coastal research since 1953. Investigators into salt marsh environments have used this research facility as resident and visiting scientists, and the Institute has undergone renewed growth during the past decade. Due to its remote location, separated from the mainland by six miles of marshland, the Institute is subject to electrical brownouts and complete power failures. Dr. James Alberts, Director of the Institute, proposes to install an uninterruptible power source. This backup system would eliminate brownouts and would provide continuous electricity for 30 minutes following power failures. The Institute's backup generator system would provide electricity beyond this 30 minute interval. The proposed installation of an uninterruptible power source would have an important impact on the Institute's research capabilities. Researchers at the Institute must rely on uninterrupted electricity for controlled growing environments, culture growth chambers, and continuous environmental monitoring systems. Brownouts and power failures can destroy months and years of research effort. The proposed power supply will support continued growth of the Institute's research impact.
