The Advanced Research on Integrated Energy Systems (ARIES) platform, operated by the National Laboratory of the Rockies, offers capabilities to test and validate marine energy technologies integrated with hybrid power systems. Wave energy has potential applications for powering offshore and coastal microgrids that serve purposes including recharging autonomous underwater vehicles, supporting ocean sensors, managing aquaculture operations, and providing electricity to remote communities. The technology requires interconnection with storage and hybrid generation assets that remain in early development stages, making laboratory testing critical before deployment in ocean environments.
ARIES combines multiple validation tools to emulate real-world conditions. The platform integrates power systems, water power technologies, power electronics, and simulated ocean physics in a controlled setting. A key component is the Large-Amplitude Motion Platform (LAMP), which replicates ocean wave movement and can test wave energy converters weighing up to 10,000 kilograms across six degrees of freedom. Complementary dynamometers at the facility validate power take-off systems for rotary and linear generators used in wave, tidal, and river current devices.
The platform addresses a significant challenge in marine energy deployment: power electronics that convert variable ocean-generated electricity into stable, usable grid power. Researchers use ARIES to test charge controllers, battery integration systems, and other components that manage energy flow between offshore generators and onshore systems. The facility can replicate virtually any microgrid configuration, from simple systems to complex hybrid setups involving electrolyzers, batteries, and responsive loads.
ARIES has supported multiple research projects and technology validations. One example involved testing the hydraulic and electric reverse osmosis wave energy converter, where researchers developed improved charge controllers for managing energy flow. According to facility leadership, companies working with the laboratory consistently incorporate lessons learned into next-generation systems. The facility has expanded its outreach through webinar series examining integration challenges for marine energy in remote and islanded microgrids, particularly for communities with limited grid connections.
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