World Oceans Day pays homage to the largest ecosystem on our planet by raising awareness of the vital role that oceans play in our daily lives. Home to the only marine research facility in the Department of Energy, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) delivers integrative ocean science, modeling, analytical tools, and expertise to support coastal ecosystems and communities, marine energy and offshore wind development, marine carbon dioxide removal, as well as sustainable use of marine resources.
Powering a Clean Energy Future
From the power of waves, tides, and currents to the abundant maritime winds, the ocean holds vast untapped potential to provide us with clean energy. PNNL researchers are working to understand marine energy opportunities and overcome technological, environmental, and operational challenges to implement marine energy in sustainable ways. Widespread deployment of marine energy and offshore wind technologies could power a multitude of sectors and provide renewable energy to coastal communities.
- Check out the new hybrid research vessel (RV) coming to PNNL-Sequim, RV Resilience—purposely designed to accelerate sustainable marine research in renewable energy, national security, and more.
- Read about how PNNL researchers are partnering with developers to help advance new marine energy technologies.
- Learn how PNNL is leading efforts to advance offshore wind by improving offshore wind forecasts, partnering with industry to test new technologies, and researching the potential effects of floating wind turbines on marine wildlife.
- Learn more about marine energy, offshore wind, and environmental monitoring of marine energy devices at PNNL.
Advancing Climate Resilience
Coastal zones comprise only 17 percent of the U.S. land area, but they house more than half of the U.S. population. Coastal communities are facing serious challenges due to climate change—from sea level rise and increased flood risk to the loss of valuable coastal habitats and marine resources upon which many people rely. Researchers at PNNL are providing data and expertise that can be used to preserve coastlines, support energy-resilient coastal communities, and help mitigate the effects of climate change.
- Learn how PNNL researchers are partnering with industry to test new marine carbon dioxide removal (mCDR) technologies and explore new mCDR approaches intended to mitigate the effects of climate change.
- See how PNNL researchers are partnering with coastal communities and local organizations to provide technical assistance supporting clean energy transitions.
- Learn more about the coastal ecosystem and ocean modeling research at PNNL that is informing climate-ready coastal communities.
Leading Innovative Marine Science
PNNL researchers and staff are leaders in marine science and work with key partners and stakeholders to address pressing concerns in energy, security, and the environment.
- PNNL is partnering with state and federal organizations to leverage the power of the ocean to reduce emissions and mitigate climate change. Learn more about the regional workshop in September 2023 that brought together researchers, policymakers, government agencies, industry, and community organizations in support of the nation’s Ocean Climate Action Plan.
- In collaboration with academic research institutions, PNNL marine researchers are working to advance marine science and technology and spur research and innovation.
- PNNL marine researchers are leaders in their respective fields who are regularly recognized for outstanding scientific contributions and technological innovations.
Providing the Necessary Tools
Key to PNNL’s ocean science are the experts, research facilities, and vessels at PNNL-Sequim. Located on Sequim Bay in Washington State, PNNL-Sequim is uniquely positioned for marine-based research that helps the nation achieve sustainable energy and secure, resilient coasts. PNNL-Sequim is home to:
- Expert marine scientists and engineers—meet a few in the Tied to the Ocean video series.
- Five research vessels—including a future hybrid electric vessel—and an autonomous surface vehicle.
- Thousands of square feet of aquatic laboratory facilities.
- Nearby marine and wetland field sites.
