Renewable Ocean Energy
Research Focus AeaResearch Focus Area Overview
Society’s reliance on fossil fuels is not sustainable. Developing novel approaches of generating electrical power without fossil fuel use, is critical. Research related to harnessing energy from the “motion of the ocean” is in its infancy. However, our researchers are examining the possibility of harnessing ocean currents, such as the Gulf Stream, and waves to provide clean energy, as well as the possible environmental implications. This cutting-edge research, including field and modeling approaches, aims to decrease our dependence on fossil fuels while simultaneously providing for the energy needs of an ever-growing coastal population.
Research Labs
Oceanography & Marine Hydrokinetic Energy Ocean Lab
Marine
Geochemistry &
Coastal Dynamics
Lab
Coastal Engineering & Adaptation
Lab
Coastal Marine Processes & Geomorphology Lab
Human
Dimensions
of the Coast
Lab
Coasts &
Oceans
Observing
Lab
Ecology & Biogeochemistry
in Marine & Coastal
Systems Lab
Renewable Ocean Energy News
CoastLines Summer/ Fall 2025 Available Now
We are proud to announce the Summer/ Fall 2025 issue of the ECU Integrated Coastal Programs Newsletter, CoastLines. Stay up to date on the research, education, and outreach programs of ECU ICP and the Coastal Studies Institute.In This Issue Corbett’s CornerStudent...
CoastLines Spring 2025 Available Now
We are proud to announce the Spring 2025 issue of the ECU Integrated Coastal Programs Newsletter, CoastLines. Stay up to date on the research, education, and outreach programs of ECU ICP and the Coastal Studies Institute.In This Issue Corbett’s CornerStudent Section...
Integrated Coastal Programs Announces 2024-2025 Scholarship Recipients
ECU Integrated Coastal Programs (ICP) is pleased to announce five student scholar awards for the 2024-2025 academic year. Elnaz Pezeshki received the Anja Sjostrom Memorial Scholarship in Coastal Studies, an award that was established in January 2022 after the...



Based at the Coastal Studies Institute (CSI), the North Carolina Renewable Ocean Energy Program (NCROEP) advances inter-disciplinary marine energy solutions across UNC System partner colleges of engineering at NC State University, UNC Charlotte, and NC A&T University. Click on the links below for more information.
ECU's Integrated Coastal Programs (ECU ICP) is a leader in coastal and marine research, education, and engagement. ECU ICP includes the Coastal Studies Institute, ECU's Department of Coastal Studies, and ECU Diving and Water Safety.
The ECU Outer Banks campus is home to the Coastal Studies Institute.

