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Modeling and Design

NLR's computing resources allow our scientists and engineers to study the performance of wave energy systems at unprecedented levels of detail to enable the development of innovative and robust marine energy system modeling and design.

Photo of three researchers examining a topographical map.

Photo by Dennis Schroeder, National Laboratory of the Rockies

Resource Characterization

NLR collaborates with industry and other national labs to deliver data on marine energy resources to help developers design the next generation of marine energy technologies.

Coastal Structure Integrated Wave Energy Converters

NLR is researching coastal structure integrated wave energy converters to protect vulnerable coastal communities from erosion and storms while converting wave energy into electricity.

High-Performance Computing

NLR's computational science, high-performance computing, applied mathematics, visualization, and data accelerate process innovations, enhance reliability, and reduce risk across the energy ecosystem.

OpenFAST: Marine Turbine Simulation Tool

OpenFAST, an open-source tool that simulates marine energy turbines, is helping developers understand how their devices might perform in open water.

Variable Geometry and Controls

To reduce the cost of wave energy, NLR researchers develop wave energy system technologies that can optimize power absorption and minimize peak loads and peak-to-average power using novel control strategies, like variable-geometry systems, which can change shape to produce more energy more efficiently.

Wave Array and System Integration Analysis

NLR designs numerical modeling tools to analyze and improve wave energy system integration with micro- and utility-scale grid systems as well as tools to optimize device array layout and performance in wave energy power plants.

Wave Energy Conversion Modeling

NLR develops open-source, computer-aided engineering tools and uses high-fidelity numerical wave energy conversion modeling methods. These tools provide the wave energy community with state-of-the-art design and simulation capabilities needed to develop commercially viable technologies.

Contact

Salman Husain

Researcher III, Mechanical Engineering

Salman.Husain@nlr.gov


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Last Updated Oct. 20, 2026