OMNI Features｜Colombian start-up tests small-scale wave energy converter

Neowave Energy, a Colombian start-up, has advanced its Wave Energy Converter (WEC) development by testing a small-scale prototype at the Universidad Nacional de Colombia. The tests focused on manufacturing, stackability, assembly, anchoring, hydrodynamics, performance, and energy output under varying wave conditions.

The initiative aims to validate scalability and readiness for future development stages before moving toward commercialization, including tank and linear bench tests, simulations, and open-water trials. Currently at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4[1], the project has received funding from the Interreg North West Europe OPIN project, the Colombian Science Ministry, and the U.S.-based TEAMER program.

The WEC is designed as a point absorber using commercial parts and recyclable materials. Its reliance on traditional manufacturing methods makes it suitable for deployment in developing nations, offering accessible renewable energy solutions for remote communities. According to Director Jose Montoya, the company is actively seeking for international partners to support the next stages in the developing process: Tank test, linear test bench, simulations, open water tests.

Note:
[1] (TRL)：Technology readiness levels (TRLs) are a method for estimating the maturity of technologies during the acquisition phase of a program. The technology maturity level is divided into 9 levels (TRL 1~TRL 9).

Reference: Offshore-Energy.biz