Wave energy technology is riding the crest of innovation, with multiple projects taking shape across different regions as scientists and engineers hone their skills to transform the ocean's motion directly to power. Among prominent initiatives is the PacWave project situated off the Oregon coast, which positions itself as the first utility-scale grid-connected wave energy testing site in the United States.
The PacWave facility, being constructed about seven miles off Newport, Oregon, has been built to create the ideal testing environment for wave energy technologies. With subpar testing facilities previously limiting the industry's development, this site, covering approximately two square miles, aims to fill the gaps encountered by developers seeking to optimize their devices under real-world oceanic conditions. Burke Hales, the chief scientist involved, emphasized, "The idea is to provide the facility, the playing field for the developers who produce the devices to get real-time testing and figure out how to optimize their systems."
Set to officially open for testing by mid-2025, this state-of-the-art center comprises two main sections: PacWave North for small-scale prototypes and PacWave South designated for larger-scale deployments. The technology will link to the standard grid, allowing for seamless integration of wave energy as part of the overall energy mix. This integration is expected to be realized with the CalWave device, one of the first to connect up by summer 2026.
While the promise of wave energy is immense—potentially accounting for 20 percent of America’s electricity needs—industry leaders admit there's significant ground to cover before this technology can reach its full potential. Hales commented on the current state of wave energy technology, likening its progress to being about two decades behind wind energy. He noted, "The wave energy industry is vastly complex and has developed much slower than wind because of the unpredictable nature of ocean testing."
Amongst the various nations engaged with wave energy, Australia is becoming recognized for its substantial advancements. The recent deployment of the 'Moored MultiMode Multibody' device, or M4, just off Albany's coast showcases Australia's commitment to becoming a leader in renewable energy generation. Dr. Wiebke Ebeling, the manager of the Marine Energy Research Australia (MERA), stated, "This is the first step toward developing the only test site for wave energy projects and signifies Albany's potential as Australia’s renewable energy capital."
This groundbreaking project set for six-month trials is set to collect data on wave energies and supports the case for wave energy as dependable and consistent power generation. The partnership between academia and local communities aims to bolster the economy and help Australia achieve net-zero targets, capitalizing on the sufficient wave energy resources along its southern coast.
Back across the Pacific, the Israeli company Eco Wave Power has also drawn attention with its innovative concepts. Moving its installation from Gibraltar to the Port of Los Angeles, Eco Wave Power aims to create the first onshore wave energy project within the United States. This initiative will use floaters anchored to existing infrastructure, allowing them to rise and fall with wave motion, driving hydraulic pistons connected to generators. This adaptable technology is poised to not only provide renewable energy but to do so without occupying significant space.
Updated versions of their pilot device will also be deployed to align with U.S. standards as Eco Wave Power aims to tap America’s coastline potential, which is estimated to provide over 1,400 TWh of energy per year. This initiative demonstrates how portable renewable technologies can adapt to suit different environments, emphasizing the global commitment to clean energy solutions.
Meanwhile, Canadian scientists are echoing similar ambitions to develop wave energy technologies along both the Atlantic and Pacific coasts, as they see vast energy potential. With roughly 42,000 MW of estimated energy capacity off the Pacific coast, they are researching early-stage projects focused on constructing prototype devices. Brad Buckham, co-director of the Pacific Regional Institute for Marine Energy Discovery, stated, "We are simply at the pre-commercial stage, but we see enormous possibilities for collaboration across borders, aiming to develop business models for wave energy sooner rather than later."
Concerns remain about the sustainability and durability of wave energy devices, particularly due to the ocean's harsh conditions which can corrode materials quickly. Researchers are proactively exploring means to improve device longevity and reduce operational costs. New technologies include those responsive to environmental changes, potentially allowing them to submerge when turbulent waves threaten their stability.
It's clear from global advancements in wave energy technology, collaboration among scientists, industry leaders, and local communities is indispensable. The potential of wave energy, often overshadowed by solar and wind power, is garnering attention as more countries strive for cleaner, renewable sources of energy. The exciting challenge remains not only to adequately design and implement these technologies but to also engage and align community interests to facilitate the transition to sustainable energy.
Progress, albeit slow, indicates the wave energy industry is on the cusp of significant breakthroughs. The commitment seen from varied stakeholders across the globe suggests we could be witnessing the beginning of more ocean waves powering the future. With facilities like PacWave and innovative companies like Eco Wave actively testing and deploying technologies, the ocean might soon become as pivotal to the energy market as other renewables—bringing us one step closer to achieving net-zero emissions.
