When wind blows over the sea, its energy is transferred into the water, creating waves that move across the planet. Innovative technologies known as wave energy converters (WECs), including the WaveRoller®, capture this oceanic movement to generate electricity. The energy output from these systems depends on various factors, including wave speed, height, frequency, and water density.
With a staggering global potential, wave energy could become the largest source of renewable energy from our seas, with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) estimating an annual production capacity of 29,500 TWh—nearly ten times Europe’s annual electricity consumption of 3,000 TWh.
Wave energy offers utility-scale power production that complements other renewable sources like wind, and its benefits extend beyond energy generation. It is clean, infinite, and locally sourced, making it crucial for securing energy supplies and achieving climate goals. The ONDEP project is committed to unlocking this potential by establishing a 2 MW wave energy farm using four WaveRoller® devices and creating a comprehensive European supply chain. By addressing technical, environmental, and economic aspects, ONDEP aims to foster confidence in wave energy adoption and contribute to a sustainable future while supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to clean energy and environmental conservation.
WAVE ENERGY
WaveRoller® technology, developed by AW-Energy, harnesses the kinetic energy of ocean waves to generate clean, renewable electricity. As a cornerstone of the ONDEP project, the WaveRoller® system employs submerged, hinged panels that oscillate with wave movements. This motion drives a hydraulic power take-off system, efficiently converting wave energy into electrical power. This reliable, scalable technology enhances the performance of wave energy converters (WECs), positioning it as a significant contributor to the renewable energy landscape.
Designed for durability and adaptability, WaveRoller® units can operate efficiently in a variety of sea conditions with minimal maintenance. With over a decade of successful operation at the Peniche site, including comprehensive full-scale demonstrations, WaveRoller® technology has consistently delivered reliable energy output. It plays a vital role in advancing sustainable energy solutions and is paving the way for a future powered by marine energy.