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Michael Bernitsas, professor in the Department of Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering, stands before a prototype of his VIVACE hydrokinetic energy device.

Photo credit: Scott Galvin

VIVACE, a new concept in hydrokinetic energy, can harness energy from “vortex-induced vibrations” in slow-moving ocean and river currents. Vortices in the fluid flow move the device, which is passive. A vortex can be seen in this photo.

Photo credit: Scott Galvin

An artist’s illustration of an array of VIVACE converters on the ocean floor.

Illustration credit: Omar Jamil