Researchers at the National Laboratory of the Rockies are launching a new webinar series to explore the integration of marine energy into remote microgrids. While wave, tidal, and river-current resources offer massive potential for isolated regions like Alaska, the risks of deploying unproven technology remain high. By utilizing advanced laboratory modeling and power-hardware-in-the-loop (PHIL) testing, experts aim to validate these systems in controlled environments. This approach ensures that emerging marine energy technologies are reliable and stable before they reach community grids, reducing economic and environmental risks for local residents.
The potential for harnessing energy from waves, tides, and currents is particularly significant for remote coastal and riverine communities that currently lack reliable or affordable power. A report from the National Laboratory of the Rockies (NLR) highlights that these marine resources are widely distributed across the United States. In Alaska alone, over 250 communities rely on isolated microgrids, making them ideal candidates for localized energy solutions that could reduce dependence on expensive imported fuels.
However, the transition to marine energy is not without its hurdles. Deploying early-stage technologies—such as wave energy converters and hydrokinetic devices—directly into isolated grids can lead to system instability, threatening the livelihoods of residents who depend on consistent electricity. To address these concerns, the NLR is hosting a four-part webinar series titled “Marine Energy Microgrid and Power Electronics,” beginning on February 9.
A central focus of the research is the use of Power-Hardware-in-the-Loop (PHIL) simulation. This technology allows researchers to create a virtual environment that mimics the conditions of a real-world microgrid. By connecting physical energy-conversion hardware to these simulations, scientists can observe how new devices interact with existing infrastructure without any risk to actual community power systems.
Alec Schnabel, a researcher at the NLR, emphasized that the primary goal is to ensure communities do not become experimental test beds. This is particularly crucial in regions like Alaska, where environmental conditions are extreme and maintenance is difficult. Laboratory validation provides a necessary safety net, allowing developers to answer critical questions regarding efficiency and performance before a single piece of equipment is installed in the water.
Beyond basic power generation, the webinar series will also delve into specialized applications of marine energy. Future sessions are expected to cover the use of wave energy converters for seawater desalination and improvements in the power electronics that govern these systems. By refining these technologies in the lab, researchers hope to lower the barriers to adoption and provide a blueprint for sustainable, water-powered energy independence.