Offshore Wind Projects

Comparative Study & Networked Benchmarking of Power Electronics Architectures for HVDC OSW Energy Integration

This project aims to conduct (1) a systematic comparative study of different HVDC architectures, (2) develop an extended bandwidth model for coupled HVDC system simulation, and (3) perform OSW HVDC benchmarking in software and HIL platforms. The research team will also leverage its existing efforts to explore cross-platform networked simulation and research concepts for OSW research integration. In addition to the technical tasks, the research team will also conduct a marketing study report focused on the Long Island, New York City, downstate region for HVDC technology competitiveness, including market size and value, the current IP landscape, opportunities for NY businesses, technology providers, and competition strategy options.

Principle Investigator - Dr. Fang Luo
Sponsors - Sunrise Wind LLC and Stony Brook University

Understanding Economic Viability of Green H2 Production in a Wind Farm with Wake Field Interactions

Hydrogen (H₂) can transform energy technologies by offering a green and sustainable alternative to fossil fuel-based energy production. H₂ generated by electrolysis may be considered carbon neutral if the electricity is sourced from excess renewable generation, such as wind. However, like all other renewable sources, it suffers from intermittency, therefore requiring storage. The work proposed here brings together SBU strengths in mechanical and electrical engineering to develop a techno-economic analysis (TEA) of wake-field interactions of multiple wind turbines in a wind farm. Performance curves will be developed using computational fluid dynamics to understand the wake field, determine the appropriate turbine power production, and correspondingly, the levelized cost of electricity. With this knowledge, SBU will collaborate with BNL researchers to better understand the downstream H₂ production and energy storage using proton exchange membrane electrolyzes and build the performance of this conversion and grid integration into our TEA.

Principle Investigator - Dr. Dimitris Assanis
Sponsors - Sunrise Wind LLC and Stony Brook University

Magnet Topology Optimization for Electric Machine Design

The project aims to develop level-set-based, multi-physics, and multi-material topology optimization software for electric machine design. Conceptual design is considered the most important stage in the product life cycle, and topology optimization is the most advanced tool for conceptual design. The proposed topology optimization tool will be used in the initial stages of electric generator and motor development and may enable the design engineers to achieve a better design with reduced lead time. The key differentiator of the proposed magnet topology optimization tool lies in the level-set-based parametric topology optimization framework. Compared with element-based approaches such as the homogenization method and SIMP methods, the level-set-based topology optimization approach can handle multi-physics and multi-material magnet topology optimization problems with design-dependent boundary conditions. The topology optimization will be integrated with model-based co-design tools for electric-machine design to simultaneously achieve optimal designs at the component and system levels of an electric machine. The proposed research includes: (1) Multi-physics modeling of electric generators; (2) parametric level set topology optimization of multi-physics and multi-material magnets; (3) integration of topology optimization with model-based co-design; and (4) advanced manufacturing and performance validation of optimized magnets for electric generators.

Principle Investigator - Dr. Shikui Chen
Sponsor - National Science Foundation/GE

GE Renewable Energy Onshore Wind Project

The GE Renewable Energy Onshore Wind Project aimed to develop a comprehensive finite element model specifically for the GE wind turbine. This project focused on creating a detailed simulation framework to analyze and optimize the electromagnetic performance of the wind turbine components. By constructing this model, the project sought to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of electromagnetic simulations, thereby improving the design and operational capabilities of GE's wind turbines. This initiative was integral to advancing renewable energy technologies, ensuring the turbines operate at optimal efficiency, and contributing to the overall reliability and sustainability of wind energy production.

Principle Investigator - Dr. Shikui Chen
Sponsor - General Electric Company

Ørsted - Ørsted and Eversource Announce $5M Commitment to Stony Brook University to support Offshore Wind Research Initiatives - April 26, 2021

Master Research and Collaboration Agreement: Offshore Wind and Related Energy Systems Grant Program

Sunrise Wind, Stony Brook University and AERTC are well positioned to conduct research and development initiatives in New York that are intended to have an enduring impact on the offshore wind industry and the New York State economy.

Principle Investigator - Dr. Richard Reeder
Sponsor - Sunrise Wind LLC