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
CSI Faculty Receive NSF Grant for Renewable Ocean Energy Research
Remote and island communities, like the Outer Banks, do not always have access to resilient energy sources during severe weather or other coastal hazards that jeopardize traditional grid power. When disaster strikes, it may be quite some time before such communities...
NREL Team & HERO WEC Made Another OBX Visit in Spring 2024
Good waves aren’t just for surfers on the Outer Banks. They’re preferred by some engineers, too. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s (NREL’s) hydraulic and electric reverse osmosis (HERO) wave energy converter (WEC) was once again deployed in the shallow waters...
Exploring the Human Dimensions of Marine Renewable Energy
Dr. Linda D’Anna, now a research associate at the Coastal Studies Institute, was once a budding biologist; but while in graduate school, her interests took a turn toward the social science aspects of coastal issues. “I loved doing bio fieldwork, but I while I was...
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.
