Renewable energy solutions continue to gain traction as companies explore innovative ways to harness natural resources. One such company, Wavepiston, is working to integrate wave energy into power generation and desalination. With growing interest in sustainable energy sources, securing financial support becomes crucial for advancing technology and scaling operations. The latest investment will enable Wavepiston to further develop its system and strengthen its market presence.
Wavepiston has previously attracted investment for its wave energy technology, but the latest funding round marks a significant step in its progression. Similar past investments have focused on improving efficiency and validating the system’s potential. Earlier deployments tested the feasibility of large-scale wave energy solutions, paving the way for the latest technological advancements. This new funding builds on previous efforts, pushing the company toward commercialisation.
What will the investment support?
The €900K investment, secured through The Blue Line BV, will be used for several key initiatives, including further technological development, system validation in real-world conditions, and forming strategic partnerships. These efforts aim to enhance the reliability and scalability of Wavepiston’s wave energy system. The funding comes from two Dutch investment groups, Connect the Drops and Unknown Group, which focus on water sustainability and energy transition.
“Wavepiston is a unique game-changer bringing wave energy to the world. We are pleased to have onboarded The Blue Line as an impact-focused strategic investor.”
How does Wavepiston’s system work?
Wavepiston’s technology captures energy from ocean waves using a series of energy collectors connected by a string. These collectors move with the motion of the waves, driving hydraulic pumps that pressurize seawater. The pressurized water is then transported to a conversion station, where it can either drive a hydropower turbine to generate electricity or be desalinated using a reverse osmosis process. The modularity of the system allows for scalability, depending on the location and energy requirements.
The company asserts that its energy farms minimize environmental impact by keeping most of the infrastructure submerged, reducing visibility from the shore. Research indicates no significant adverse effects on marine life, further supporting the viability of the technology in diverse marine environments. Additionally, the system can contribute to local economies by creating jobs related to installation and maintenance.
Earlier this year, Wavepiston installed the first of four third-generation energy collectors at PLOCAN in Gran Canaria. The company plans to deploy the remaining units based on weather conditions and resource availability. These installations play a crucial role in refining the technology before broader commercialization efforts begin.
Ensuring the successful implementation of wave energy solutions requires continuous refinement and strategic investment. The latest funding enables Wavepiston to test and validate its technology under operational conditions, which is essential for widespread adoption. With growing concerns around energy security and water scarcity, wave energy presents a potential alternative to complement existing renewable sources like solar and wind. If proven effective at scale, Wavepiston’s system could contribute to diversifying global energy sources while addressing water access challenges.