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Characterization of Gulf Stream energy resources: A 30-year high-resolution simulation study

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  • Park, Kyungmin
  • Yang, Zhaoqing
  • Haas, Kevin
  • Muglia, Mike

Abstract

The strength and proximity of the Gulf Stream (GS) along the U.S. coast offers opportunities for marine energy extraction. Leveraging high-resolution (up to 400 m) long-term (30-year) hindcasts based on an unstructured grid model, this study characterizes the energy potential of the GS in two viable locations: the Florida Straits (FS) and Cape Hatteras (CH). Results reveal distinct characteristics in the kinetic energy flux (KEF) and kinetic energy density (KED) for the two regions. The 30-year mean KEF at CH is 27.50 GW, surpassing the 19.74 GW estimated for the FS, which is attributed to the wider cross-section of the GS in CH. Additionally, CH exhibits higher KEF variability due to GS's larger path shifts and meanders. Estimated KEDs at ADCP site locations reach up to 2908 W/m2 in the FS and 1512 W/m2 in the CH at a depth of 20 m. High-energy zones are closer to shore in the FS, whereas energy-rich areas at CH are located further offshore. A depth-based KED analysis shows significant decreases across typical energy extraction depths (20–100 m), with reductions up to 44 %. This study provides high-resolution resource characterization, forming a foundation for optimized site selection and marine hydrokinetic system design.

Suggested Citation

  • Park, Kyungmin & Yang, Zhaoqing & Haas, Kevin & Muglia, Mike, 2025. "Characterization of Gulf Stream energy resources: A 30-year high-resolution simulation study," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 255(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:renene:v:255:y:2025:i:c:s0960148125014867
    DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2025.123822
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    References listed on IDEAS

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