Energy sources using water have been around for thousands of years in the form of water clocks and waterwheels. Our seas and oceans are a source of vast energy. The transport and capture of energy by ocean surface waves is known as Wave energy. The energy captured is then used for all different kinds of useful work. A more recent innovation has been hydroelectricity or the electricity produced by the flow of water. When flowing water is captured and turned into electricity, it is called hydroelectric power or hydropower.
About Arrecife Energy Systems:
Arrecife Energy Systems is a Basque start-up, specializes in renewable energy extracted from wave power. Arrecife project was born through the research of a Ph.D. Professor José Javier Doria in the field of fluids mechanics. After over 25 years of experimentation, he could demonstrate how there was a formula to be followed in the design of turbines and different airfoils.
This led to some improvements applicable in the fields of aerodynamics and hydrodynamics. Combining his research with the observation of Nature, Prof. Doria noted that tiny living corals occupy vast extensions, forming a reef able to absorb much of the energy of waves in an efficient manner.
This led to the idea of creating direct action turbines placed in series, composed of many blades simulating a coral reef. It captures the waves’ power and transforms it into electricity simulating the behavior of a coral reef through turbines.
Characteristics:
Wave energy possesses unique characteristics that offer an advantage over other renewable energy.
- RENEWABLE SOURCE
It is a completely free source of energy.
- POTENTIAL
The benefits coming from the use of wave energy can be way higher than the ones derived from wind and sun.
- WAVE DENSITY
Their power density is higher. Thus, it is more efficient energy.
- ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY
No polluting emissions are produced.
- EASILY PREDICTABLE
The wave energy is at least three times more predictable than wind energy.
- MINIMAL VISUAL POLLUTION
Wave energy converters are installed either on the surface of the water or submerged in the water, minimizing alterations in the landscape as much as possible.
- LESS DEPENDENCY ON FUEL
Taking advantage of wave energy, society could become independent from fuel, which is limited.
- PROXIMITY
Lots of big cities and harbors are next to the ocean and can harness the power of the waves for its use.
- NO DANGER OFPOLLUTION
It is free from polluting emissions.
About the Product:
Arrecife’s technology enables to develop of a made-to-measure product. Nevertheless, they have developed models of different sizes and powers.
- ARRECIFE 75kW
Designed for small applications. Isolated places, islands or to charge solar panels batteries.
- ARRECIFE 440kW
Designed to work all around the world. Through its standardized design, the manufacturing cost is reduced.
- ARRECIFE 2MW
Big power and production model. It is the optimum model for exploiting marine energy in strong power areas from 70 kW/m.
The Arrecife systems oppose the wave on the surface and are stabilized by its weight. The Arrecife wave-power system delivers power by exploding waves, capturing at least twice as much power as necessary because it is modular, maximizing the efficiency and energy generated. for the same size wave in contrast to other technologies. The implementation of wave energy aspires to contribute to the welfare of society, providing clean-energy jobs to millions of people and helping the world becoming a greener, more sustainable place.
Pic Courtesy: Arrecife Energy Systems
Editor: Shiwani Nagrale
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