Exeter-led projects win EPSRC grants for ‘nature-based engineering’

Exeter-led projects win EPSRC grants for ‘nature-based engineering’ - University of Exeter

hazel stick dam in a small beck — Part of the FROND project will evaluate the benefits of solutions such as leaky dams, which can slow floodwater flow during storms. Credit Sharon Russell-Verma

Two projects led by the University of Exeter have been awarded grants by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).

EPSRC has funded 15 projects in total under a scheme called: “Unlocking the full potential of nature-based engineering opportunity.”

The Exeter-led projects are:

SeaHIVE (Sea Ecovoltaic Arrays for Habitat Integration, Vitality and Energy), which will develop prototype “reef-inspired” solar arrays mounted on the seabed, combining energy generation with aquaculture (fish farming) and monitoring.
FROND (Flow & Runoff Observations for Nature Inspired Drainage), which aims to provide a data-driven understanding of local- and catchment-level impacts of nature-inspired drainage solutions.

Dr Zheng Jun Chew, who leads SeaHIVE, said: “We are truly excited to receive this funding, which will help us explore an inspiring new wave of multifunctional marine infrastructure. Through SeaHIVE, we aim to go beyond traditional single-purpose offshore systems by developing reef-inspired solar structures that support biodiversity, enhance water quality and feature smart, self-powered sensing for improved marine and aquaculture management. This project is particularly meaningful because it brings together expertise from engineering, including solar energy (Dr Aritra Ghosh), machine learning (Dr Zhou Zhou), and marine ecology (Dr Robert Ellis). We hope to contribute to a more resilient, regenerative and low-carbon blue economy, making a positive impact on our ocean’s future.”