GA is in the early stages of designing high-torque/low-speed motors and generators based on advanced permanent magnet technologies. One potential application for these technologies is power generation in variable speed wind turbines. A high-torque/low-speed generator installed into a wind turbine could enable direct-drive linkage to power conversion devices. This could reduce capital and maintenance costs, while improving mechanical efficiency, by eliminating the need for gearboxes. Such a generator could also be used with underwater turbines designed to harness tidal power from ocean currents.