Innovative Wave Energy and Desalination System Tested on Caribbean Island
A pilot project utilizing ocean wave energy is set to begin in the island Caribbean nation of Barbados. Danish company Wavepiston plans to launch a commercial installation with a capacity of 50 megawatts, which will generate not only electricity but also fresh water, reports New Atlas.
A cooperation agreement has been signed between the Government of Barbados (through Export Barbados agency) and the Danish firm after several months of preliminary research. The project will be an important step from theoretical calculations to the real-world implementation of the technology in the Caribbean region.
The core of the development is a long, flexible structure—a so-called "string" about 350 meters long, anchored in the sea. Along it are modules—energy collectors. Each is equipped with a small underwater "sail" that moves under the influence of waves.
This movement powers a hydraulic pump that pumps seawater under high pressure. The water then flows via a pipeline to a central station, where it either rotates a hydro-turbine to generate electricity or is directed to a system for desalination and obtaining drinking water.
Thanks to the modules not moving simultaneously, the pressurized water flow is stable. Additionally, the design partially compensates for wave loads, making it more resilient and less expensive to maintain.
Wave energy is considered one of the most stable renewable sources—unlike sun and wind, it is less dependent on weather changes. At the same time, the technology must meet strict environmental requirements.
According to preliminary tests, no negative impact on marine ecosystems has been found—in some places, an increase in the number of marine organisms near the installations has even been noted.
For Barbados, the project holds strategic importance. The country aims to achieve climate neutrality by 2030 and is already investing in solar, wind energy, and energy storage systems. The new wave power station is expected to strengthen the country's energy independence, provide it with additional supplies of drinking water, create new jobs, and make Barbados a regional hub for wave energy.
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