The GREENH2WAVE project has made significant strides in advancing WEC technology beyond the current state of the art. One of the most remarkable advancements is the FOWC device's high efficiency in both regular and random wave conditions, with peak efficiencies reaching 93% and 81%, respectively. These results surpass the performance levels of other WEC technologies, marking a breakthrough in wave energy conversion efficiency. By achieving such high performance, the FOWC device has the potential to significantly reduce the cost of energy production from ocean waves.
Additionally, laboratory tests verified the reliability of the FOWC device in surviving harsh ocean conditions, a key challenge that has led to the failure of several previous WEC concepts and remains a barrier to commercial development of WECs.
- Potential Impacts of the Project
• Long-term Impact: The GREENH2WAVE project holds the promise of creating a paradigm shift in marine energy applications, particularly through the integration of wave energy with offshore green hydrogen production. The FOWC device generates clean electricity from waves, enabling hydrogen production and storage at sea, advancing sustainable marine fuel solutions.
• Impact on Company Growth: The project has significantly boosted the company’s growth by addressing two key barriers: the low TRL of its product and the lack of robust IP. Advancing the technology to TRL 4 and securing IP protection through a patent application overcame these hurdles. Mentoring programme also improved the business plan, management strategy, and CEO's leadership, setting a clear path for future growth.
- Key Requirements for Further Uptake and Success
• Further R&D: Though the FOWC device has reached TRL 4, additional R&D is needed for full-scale deployment and to address challenges in various ocean conditions, ultimately reaching TRL 9.
• Demonstration & Market Validation: Offshore pilot projects and collaborations with key stakeholders, like maritime operators, are essential for proving the technology’s capabilities and building market trust.
• Access to Finance: Securing funding through bodies like the EIB and applying for EU grants, such as the Innovation Fund, will be critical for scaling the system.
• Regulatory Support: Engaging policymakers to align the technology with maritime energy standards and environmental regulations is key to market entry.
- Overview of the Results
Key technical and scientific outcomes of the GREENH2WAVE project include:
• Advancement of FOWC technology from TRL 3 to TRL 4 (project main objective).
• Completed wave tank tests of the 1:70 scale prototype, confirming its dynamic stability and high efficiency in various ocean conditions.
• Peak energy conversion efficiency of 93% in regular waves and 81% in random waves, outperforming traditional WECs.
• Paper submitted to Ocean Engineering showcasing scientific achievements.
• Patent application submitted to the EPO for FOWC design idea protection.
• CEO's leadership and business skills improved through Women TechEU mentoring.
• Public outreach through social media and the company's website to promote clean energy solutions.
