Session: 09-09-01 Hybrid Energy: Hybrid Marine Renewables

Submission Number: 180999

Offshore Renewable Energy Review: Wind, Wave, Current and Hybridization 

Offshore renewable energy (ORE) contributes to the global clean energy transition by providing vast, reliable, and sustainable resources that can reduce carbon emissions and enhance energy security. With a global potential exceeding current electricity demand, ORE can be a significant step towards achieving Net Zero goals. This review examines the current state and future potential of ORE, focusing on offshore wind, wave, current, and hybrid energy technologies. Offshore wind has seen rapid global expansion, driven by falling costs, technological improvements, and supportive policies, while wave and current energy technologies are advancing through innovative designs (such as oscillating water columns and tidal stream turbines) and pilot deployments. However, their commercialization still remains limited by challenges like maintenance and durability in harsh marine environments. Hybrid offshore renewable systems that combine wind, wave, and current energy in collocated or integrated configurations are increasingly gaining attention for their ability to enhance power reliability, optimize ocean space, and improve energy generation consistency. Emerging technologies, including advanced mooring-anchoring systems, offshore energy storage, hydrogen production, and AI-enabled monitoring and predictive maintenance, are further strengthening the scalability and efficiency of ORE systems. Additionally, strong policy frameworks and international collaboration are supporting continued investment and innovation in the sector. As countries pursue Net Zero targets, offshore renewable energy is well-positioned to play a central role in future energy systems, providing large-scale, clean power while creating economic opportunities and supporting sustainable development.

Presenting Author: Jerry Zuo Skyline High School and University of Michigan

Presenting Author Biography: Jerry Zuo is a high school student at Skyline High School in Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA. He has conducted research on offshore renewable energy for the past three years. He has published two papers on the design and analysis of marine current turbines and a hybrid offshore wind-wave platform at two international conferences. He has also started a Science Olympiad team at Skyline High School.

Authors:

Jerry Zuo Skyline High School and University of Michigan