Researchers at Stony Brook University are working with Verdant Power, a renewable energy company based in New York, and the Advanced Energy Research and Technology Center (AERTC), to advance tidal energy technology. Associate Professor Ali Khosronejad from the Department of Civil Engineering leads a project that uses high-fidelity computational modeling to optimize marine hydrokinetic turbines for deployment in Long Island Sound.
David Hamilton Sr., director of corporate engagement for the Office of Research and Innovation, said, “The Advanced Energy Center has a long history with Verdant, and their current technological needs aligned perfectly with the outstanding capabilities of Ali and his team. This project shows how Stony Brook can collaborate with our industry partners at critical times in their strategic growth to help drive innovation and commercial success. Both parties have come together for this project in an inspiring way that leverages each other’s strengths, and I have no doubt will result in the development of a unique and impactful solution to capture the energy of marine environments.”
Tidal energy offers greater potential power generation than wind due to water’s higher density. According to Khosronejad, “Tidal energy works on the same principle as wind energy. But instead of air, we’re dealing with water, which has a density a thousand times greater. That means the potential for power generation is also much higher.” Verdant Power has developed new turbine designs aimed at improving efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Physical deployment of these turbines presents challenges due to complexity and expense. The research team addresses this by creating digital simulations that replicate environmental conditions within Long Island Sound. As Khosronejad explained, “We’re simulating everything: the turbine geometry, the water flow, the sediment movement and even the interaction of the device with the seabed. This allows us to evaluate performance, environmental impact and cost-efficiency without ever going into the field.”
The initiative builds on Khosronejad’s involvement with the Atlantic Marine Energy Center (AMEC), funded by the U.S. Department of Energy. Through AMEC, Stony Brook collaborates with several universities—including Lehigh University, University of New Hampshire, and Coastal Studies Institute—to study various marine renewable technologies.
Abdelrahim Brown, center director for AERTC and GrIDD (Center for Grid Innovation Development and Deployment), commented on industry-academic collaboration: “This collaboration reflects what we do at our best. Verdant had a real need, and Ali and his team brought the kind of depth and discipline that can actually move an idea forward. When industry and university teams work side by side like this, we create a path that is practical, scalable and genuinely useful. That’s the kind of work that strengthens our region and contributes to a more resilient energy future.”
The research relies on high-fidelity numerical modeling using large-scale computing resources to simulate full-scale systems directly applicable outside laboratory settings. “Running these simulations requires supercomputers with hundreds or even a thousand CPUs working continuously for weeks,” said Khosronejad.
Environmental considerations are central to this work as well; simulations examine how turbine installation might affect sediment transport or seafloor topography within Long Island Sound—a key step before actual deployment.
Khosronejad noted federal interest in expanding clean marine energy: “The Department of Energy wants universities to partner with industry to advance these technologies,” he said. “This collaboration helps the U.S. move toward energy security by diversifying renewable sources beyond solar and wind.”
The project began in early 2025; results will guide design improvements making turbines more efficient or affordable as they move toward commercialization while training students in advanced simulation techniques.
“This is about impact, not just research,” Khosronejad said. “If our results help Verdant Power fine-tune their technology and bring tidal energy closer to market, that’s a win for everyone.”
Hamilton highlighted AERTC’s role connecting companies like Verdant Power with academic researchers: “Our role is to bridge the gap between academia and industry,” he said. “This project demonstrates how AERTC can help companies accelerate technology development while providing faculty and students with meaningful opportunities to apply their expertise.”
Looking ahead at broader implications for decarbonization efforts—especially relevant for coastal regions or remote communities still reliant on diesel—Khosronejad stated: “There are places in Alaska that still rely on diesel flown in by airplane,” he noted. “A single turbine in a nearby river could power an entire community sustainably. That’s the kind of change this technology can bring.” He added optimism about closing gaps between U.S.-based marine renewables research compared internationally: “We’re laying the groundwork for a future where ocean energy becomes a major part of the renewable portfolio,” he said.
