Modeling Stakeholders and Lifecycle Requirements of Marine Hydrokinetic Energy Systems

Abstract

Marine hydrokinetic energy offers a promising solution to the growing demand for clean and reliable electricity. These systems can generate power from low-speed flowing water, and over a wide range of sites. This paper outlines a lifecycle-based framework for developing marine hydrokinetic systems. It emphasizes stakeholder needs, regulatory compliance, and site-specific factors critical to successful deployment. By integrating engineering, environmental, and economic viewpoints, this work provides a baseline and other considerations for advancing these technologies toward commercial viability. First, six quality attributes are listed, and then five general stakeholders, including the consumer, owner, government, energy distributor, and regulatory bodies. Next, a set of general requirements grouped into five categories is shown. Finally, several key design decisions are discussed. Much of this content is captured in a model using the Systems Modeling Language (SysML). Overall, this paper can serve as a baseline for marine hydrokinetic technology development and understanding. This content is not comprehensive; further work will be required to ensure specific site and technology considerations are accounted for. Keywords: marine hydrokinetic systems, system lifecycle, model-based systems engineering, requirements, design, product development, risk management