Imagine harnessing the power of natural waves to collect energy without huge static machinery on the shoreline. This concept is becoming a reality with an ongoing project called TALOS WEC, funded by EPSRC and run by Professor George Aggidis, Head of Energy Engineering and Director of the Renewable Energy Group & Fluid Machinery Group in the School of Engineering.

TALOS WEC is a novel high-performance wave energy converter that can be placed in water where there are natural waves. Inside the outer shell is a ball that moves with the flow of the ocean. As the ball moves, it causes strong hydraulic cylinders to pump hydraulic fluid through a circuit. This flows through a hydraulic motor attached to an electric generator and generates electricity. It can also use linear generators to produce electricity directly. The energy can then be used like any other type of electricity, in situ or on dry land.

This approach is revolutionary as it takes energy being generated naturally and turns it into electricity we can use. Before now, this energy was difficult to generate and capture. There are no emissions from TALOS WEC, it simply harnesses the power of nature. TALOS WEC is still in the developmental phase but has great potential to generate electricity and reduce dependence on dirty fuel. TALOS WEC has been tested in the University’s wave tank facility and results so far have been extremely positive.

The project has been through various phases to maximise its potential. This began with optimising the concept to refine the design and improve its performance. Then followed a phase looking at operational systems with sensors to develop a monitoring system that continuously reviewed the vessel to improve its reliability and survivability. An additional phase looked at the long-term energy yield to ensure this was as high as possible and could be achieved as planned. These phases are all the hard work of researchers involved in the project and outputs have been achieved in the UK, USA, Greece and China so far.

The project is open access to allow further developments to happen across the world. However, testing continues here in Lancaster University. Professor Aggidis and his team of researchers are constantly refining the process to maximise what TALOS WEC can achieve. This process is vital to make TALOS WEC the best it can be to assist in new ways of harnessing energy in a world that requires more all the time but is looking to reduce carbon emissions. This is a project that has global potential and could make a huge impact on the climate crisis.

Professor Aggidis said:

"The TALOS Wave Energy Converter (WEC) is an advanced system designed to harness the natural energy of ocean waves and convert it into clean, renewable electricity. This technology leverages the immense, consistent power of wave motion, making it a promising solution for sustainable energy generation."

Key Features and Advantages of the TALOS WEC:

Renewable Energy Source: By tapping into ocean wave power, TALOS provides an eco-friendly alternative to fossil fuels, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

High Energy Density: Ocean waves offer a much higher energy density compared to wind or solar, meaning TALOS can generate more power in a smaller footprint.

24/7 Energy Potential: Unlike solar or wind energy, wave power is less affected by time of day or weather conditions, enabling more consistent energy output.

Innovative Design: The TALOS WEC incorporates cutting-edge technologies and engineering to withstand harsh marine environments, optimizing durability and efficiency.

Scalability: TALOS systems can be deployed in clusters to support large-scale energy needs, making them adaptable for various coastal regions and energy demands.

Impact and Future Potential: With ongoing research and development, TALOS aims to make wave energy a viable and widespread resource for global energy needs.

This technology holds the potential to power coastal cities and industries, contributing significantly to the global shift toward renewable energy and helping mitigate climate change.

The TALOS Wave Energy Converter stands as a symbol of innovation, capturing nature’s relentless energy to drive sustainable progress. Research and development for the TALOS Wave Energy Converter is more than innovation; it's pioneering a future where ocean energy powers communities sustainably, proving that the solutions to tomorrow's energy challenges are within reach today.

More information can be found here