cleantechnica.com
Sep 12, 2026
New Kind Of Surfer Is Riding Waves — And Producing Power
AI-summarised brief · reviewed before publication
The National Laboratory of the Rockies and the University of Hawaii deployed the Small Underwater Research Flap Wave Energy Converter (SURF‑WEC) off Makai Pier in Oahu, marking the first open‑water test of this low‑barrier device. The flap, about the size of a large TV, oscillates with waves, driving a hydraulic system that powers a generator. Researchers can toggle between passive and active modes remotely, collecting real‑time data on performance and efficiency. The project will publish design details and test results to fill a critical data gap in marine energy research.
💡 Why It Matters
- · By providing freely accessible data and a modular, adaptable design, the SURF‑WEC accelerates the transition of wave energy from theory to commercial viability, offering a practical benchmark for future devices.
