Harvesting Wind Energy via the Triboelectric Effect; Using Actor-Network Theory To Examine The Rejection Rate Of Renewable Wind Energy Using The Cape Wind Case

My technical and STS research projects are connected through the shared concern for designing and implementing renewable energy systems, and the factors that shape their success or failure. Both projects explore how energy technologies interact with a broader network of human and non-human actors. While my technical report focuses on designing a triboelectric energy harvester for urban low-wind environments, my STS research paper analyzes the failure of a proposed offshore wind farm known as the Cape Wind Project. Together, these projects approach the issue of renewable energy from different angles of technical feasibility and sociotechnical integration, emphasizing the importance of aligning design with context.
The technical project proposes a compact, battery-free energy harvesting device designed to operate in urban environments where larger wind turbines would be ineffective. Using triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) technology, the design mimics grass-like structures that vibrate in wind speeds as low as 5 mph, producing electricity through material friction and contact separation. This approach offers a sustainable, low-maintenance alternative to conventional batteries for powering small portable devices. The goal was to create a device that meets environmental constraints while addressing the practical limitations of traditional wind energy in dense urban settings.
My STS research examines the Cape Wind Project’s failure through the lens of Actor Network Theory (ANT), highlighting the instability of the sociotechnical network it attempted to build. The project, proposed off the coast of Massachusetts, faced prolonged resistance from local communities, regulatory bodies, Indigenous groups, and environmental organizations. Using ANT allowed me to trace how the project’s network unraveled as conflicting interests and power imbalances undermined its legitimacy. My paper explores how the project failed not because of its technical components, but because it could not stabilize the relationships necessary to support large-scale renewable infrastructure.
Working on both projects in parallel provided a deeper understanding of the relationship between technological design and social context. The technical work helped me think about material constraints and design tradeoffs, while the STS research reminded me that even well-intentioned technologies can fail if they neglect the complex networks they are operating in. Going forward, I will apply these insights by approaching future engineering projects with greater awareness of stakeholder dynamics and the need for inclusive, context sensitive design. Working on both my STS research paper and my technical project together this past year has allowed me to explore the issues surrounding renewable energy technologies, while showing me that sustainable innovation requires not only technical skill, but also a critical understanding of the world in which technologies are deployed.

School of Engineering and Applied Science

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering

Technical Advisors: Sarah Sun, Thomas Ward

STS Advisor: Ben Laugelli

Technical Team Members: Essam Allibhai-Mawani, Anthony Ferrufino Cruz, Christopher Herath, Grace Hessberg, Steve Kim, Oliver Nicholson, Graham Osisek, Sage Wibberley