Wave energy key to UK & Ireland transition

Image: Cor Power

A recent study conducted by LUT University in Finland suggests that the United Kingdom (UK) and Ireland have the potential to harness 27 gigawatts (GW) of wave energy capacity, paving the way for a complete transition to a 100% renewable energy system by 2050.

The comprehensive investigation explored various scenarios for the successful adoption of renewable energy in the UK and Ireland. The study identified the most efficient scenario, emphasising the need for the UK to tap into a wave energy capacity of 27GW. Given the projected threefold increase in electricity consumption by 2050, the research indicates that this wave energy contribution is essential to achieving the most cost-effective and net-zero energy system.

The research paper from LUT University concludes that a diverse mix of renewables, coupled with storage, sector coupling, and flexibility, is necessary to achieve the ambitious goal of 100% renewable energy. This multifaceted approach would encompass wind, solar, wave, tidal, geothermal, biomass, and hydropower.

Professor Christian Breyer, the lead researcher and expert in solar economy at LUT University, highlighted the global, European, and regional potential of wave power, emphasising the economic attractiveness of incorporating wave energy into the overall energy system. Breyer emphasised the importance of establishing the right framework to enable the widespread adoption of wave power.

Richard Arnold, policy director at the Marine Energy Council, echoed the significance of wave energy in the UK's energy transition. Arnold commended LUT University's report, emphasizing the UK's expertise in maritime and offshore engineering, suggesting that the country is poised to lead in harnessing wave energy. He stressed the need for the UK government to provide a clear market pathway and support for the wave energy industry, ensuring investments in coastal communities and beyond.

CorPower Ocean, a wave energy company, recently celebrated an industry breakthrough with the completion of the first cycle of ocean commissioning for its commercial-scale device off the coast of northern Portugal. Arnold pointed to this development as evidence of wave energy's readiness to play a crucial role in a secure and cost-effective transition to net zero.

In advocating for governmental support, Arnold called for a consistent route to market for wave energy, with ambitious targets of deploying at least 300MW by 2035. The Marine Energy Council recently presented evidence to the UK government's Energy Security and Net Zero Select Committee inquiry, emphasising the opportunity to embed UK content in marine energy projects, both domestically and globally.

LUT University's research findings were recently published by the Institute of Engineering & Technology, providing valuable insights into the potential of wave energy for a sustainable and renewable future in the UK and Ireland.