Schnabel and Ocean Energy May Be Young, but Both Can Help Fight Climate Change
Alec Schnabel, a marine energy researcher at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), is working to advance marine energy technologies and harness the power of waves, tides, and currents to combat climate change.
Growing up in central Ohio, Alec Schnabel witnessed the effects of climate change firsthand as he experienced fewer snow days and a greener winter landscape. This personal experience led him to pursue a career in finding solutions to climate change. Now a marine energy researcher at NREL, Schnabel is focused on developing marine energy devices that can generate clean energy from the ocean’s power. His work aims to address the challenges associated with wave energy and unlock the potential of marine energy to contribute to the fight against climate change.
The Power of Wave Energy
Wave energy, unlike wind or solar power, exhibits pulsing and unpredictable patterns. Schnabel’s expertise lies in manipulating the electronic components of marine energy devices to handle these fluctuations in power. Known as power electronics, these controls are crucial in regulating the energy absorption of generators. Schnabel’s research aims to strike a balance that allows for the generation of substantial amounts of electricity without causing premature breakdowns in the system. By achieving this, marine energy could become a reliable and predictable source of clean energy.
Beyond Marine Energy
The benefits of marine energy extend beyond the renewable energy industry. Rural communities, such as Alaska’s Igiugig village and Maine’s islands, could replace diesel generators with clean energy from ocean and river sources. Marine energy could also power ocean technologies, such as observation sensors that monitor tropical storms. Additionally, states with aggressive clean energy goals could leverage marine energy to achieve their targets. The versatility and potential of marine energy make it a valuable addition to the energy mix, offering localized solutions tailored to specific regions.
From Model Trains to Circuits
Schnabel’s journey to marine energy was not a direct path. He initially pursued electrical engineering and worked on various projects related to electricity. However, his desire for a career that made a positive impact on the world led him to NREL and marine energy research. Schnabel’s expertise in power electronics and his passion for renewable energy align perfectly with the challenges and opportunities in marine energy. His goal is to contribute to the development of technologies that have a tangible impact on people’s lives and the environment.
The REGATRON and a Dog Named Stella
In his role at NREL, Schnabel utilizes the REGATRON system to simulate the integration of wave energy devices into microgrids alongside other renewable technologies. This allows him to study and improve power systems in a controlled environment, reducing risks and costs. Schnabel’s work is driven by a desire to have autonomy in his projects and see his contributions make a positive impact. He envisions a future where his work in marine energy contributes to the global transition to clean energy and helps combat climate change on a larger scale.
Conclusion: Alec Schnabel’s work as a marine energy researcher at NREL highlights the potential of marine energy as a crucial component of the clean energy transition. By focusing on power electronics and addressing the challenges associated with wave energy, Schnabel aims to unlock the full potential of marine energy and contribute to the fight against climate change. His passion for renewable energy and dedication to making a positive impact drive his work, and he envisions a future where marine energy plays a significant role in generating clean and sustainable power.