Scalable, modular design enables growth and integration with hybrid applications
WAVR LLC has unveiled a compact prototype of its innovative Wave Energy Converter (WEC). The ground-breaking technology harnesses the energy of ocean waves and converts it into electrical power. While the initial prototype is designed for consumer-level usage, the technology can be scaled up for larger implementations. Its design also supports seamless blending with other green energy sources.
The initial prototype generates less than 3 watts per square foot, which is less than a quarter of the output of contemporary solar panels. However, WAVR is optimistic about the potential of its technology. Unlike solar energy, which peaks for less than seven hours per day, wave energy is almost constant, reducing the intermittency challenges common in other renewable energy technologies. This leads to a decreased reliance on batteries for load balancing during inactive periods and subsequently mitigates the environmental concerns associated with battery systems.
Nevertheless, WAVR’s patent-pending technology isn’t designed to rival other renewable energy technologies, but rather to complement them. As showcased on the company’s website: https://www.thewavr.com/index.html, solar panels, wind turbines, and hydroelectric water turbines can be assimilated into the WAVR design to create hybrid systems.
WAVR founder Clyde Igarashi noted, “Obviously we’d like the output to be competitive with solar from the outset, but we’re happy with the first prototype. We expect future devices to have greater output as we upgrade components and continually improve the design.”
Initially, the WAVR technology will be most beneficial for low-power ocean applications that depend on a steady electricity supply, like data buoys and IoT devices. But thanks to its modular design, it can be expanded to meet higher energy demands by simply adding more modules. Doubling the number of modules roughly doubles the electricity produced. The existing prototype consists of five modules, but this can be increased for larger energy requirements. Moreover, by arranging multiple WAVR units in an array, akin to solar farms, it’s possible to generate even greater electricity.
The transition from concept to prototype took just over a year for WAVR, achieved without the need for major partnerships or government grants. However, the project has already captured the attention of influential political and business leaders.
Project advisor and former Hawaii Governor, John Waihee, stated: “Because we all realize the potential impact of the technology, I recommend that we prove the concept and disseminate the information as soon as possible. The Hawaii Clean Energy Initiative aims to achieve a 100 percent clean energy portfolio by 2045. … We may be late to the party, but we can play an important part in achieving that goal.”
Media Contact:
Michelle Lee
WAVR LLC
info@thewavr.com
Tel: (808) 206-8674
website: https://www.thewavr.com/index.html
