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 Internship OPENS Doors for ECU Student
An internship reflection by Cora McQuaid.I spent the past 8 months at the Coastal Studies Institute (CSI) in Manteo, North Carolina. As a freshman in East Carolina University’s “Semester at the Coast Program” I took an in-person field-based course on physical...
CSI Summer Camps See Successful Return
After a hiatus in 2020, the CSI summer camps were back and better than ever this summer! Each of the four sessions offered was quick to fill with 12-13 campers from all over the US. About one-third of the students attending each week were from the Outer Banks, while...
NCROEP Summer Internship Is Worthwhile Experience
An internship reflection by Vega Sproul.Over the past twelve weeks, I have had the pleasure of interning at CSI under George Bonner, Director of the North Carolina Renewable Ocean Energy Program (NCROEP).My role under George was ultimately to ultimately learn as much...