Coastal Studies Institute (CSI) is included in a University Constortium led by University of New Hampshire to establish the Atlantic Marine Energy Center (AMEC). AMEC will serve as a National Marine Renewable Energy Center (NMREC) to complement three existing NMRECs. The AMEC focus is to advance the commercial availability and application of marine energy technologies in the Atlantic region of the U.S. and support WPTO������������������s goal to grow and expand university involvement in the marine energy industry.

The focus of the proposed Engine is on clean energy resource technologies, including land-based and offshore wind, solar, and marine energy, as well as the electric-energy delivery and storage systems that support their integration. The Engine will support the net-carbon-neutral electric grid of 2050 that is now required by law in North Carolina and is a compelling goal in South Carolina. The Engine will address the complexities of renewable resource integration, such as frequency instability of and need for hybrid energy storage systems, to achieve the goal of a reliable and resilient electric grid of 2050. The Engine will develop new and strengthen existing partnerships for workforce development, and the life cycle of clean energy equipment and components, to foster a circular, inclusive, and equitable economy and address the vital needs of underserved and diverse communities through energy transformation (such as public transportation, affordable housing, and sustainable, community agriculture). The Engine���s self-sustaining innovation ecosystem will enable translational outcomes and develop workforce with a strong commitment to diversity, equity, inclusiveness, and accessibility in its organization, partnerships, and activities.

Bonner will lead project management in conjunction with Co-PI Linda D������������������Anna; serve as primary point of contact for coordination of CSI������������������s role with NREL; lead CSI team in Community Selection and application review; lead development of regionally specific training material; lead technical assistance workplan development for Community Stakeholder Engagement; attend in person and virtual training sessions; participate in network meeting and provide lessons learned and feedback on program to NREL as part of Knowledge Sharing Network.