It is estimated some 2,000,000MW of energy could be derived by wave action from the world’s oceans. However harvesting this energy has proven to be problematic with fouling and durability problems causing on-going maintenance and a greatly reduced life.

To date, wave energy has been converted to electricity by funnel like turbines mounted on the surface of the water. As the water rises, air is funneled through a turbine to generate electricity. This creates an obstacle along the coast and a hazard with underwater high voltage transmission lines connecting the units to the grid.

Seapower Pacific is set to change this. Using patented technology, the CETO wave power plant consists of two parts. The magic is in a submerged unit that does not protrude above the water line and consists of a flexible diaphragm. As waves pass the diaphragm, compression and expansion occurs which can be used to pump sea water to shore under high pressure (1000psi). On shore this high-pressure water is converted to electricity using a conventional non-marine qualified Pelton turbine.

The construction of the underwater unit is made of concrete, steel and rubber which are all proven in sea conditions. With the generator located on shore, no special requirements are needed for grid connection. The by-product of the plant is highly pressurised sea water which can be used in reverse osmosis desalination to produce fresh water.

On the 26th of July 2005, it was reported that CETO underwent its inaugural operational testing 300m west from Rous Head where it successfully transmitted high pressure seawater to shore at in excess of 500 psi. In the second half of 2005, typical pressures of between 620 to 850 PSI was obtained on-shore. In late November, the company had ordered desalination equipment which will be installed once delivered. The company has a plan to produce its first
commercial CETO by the end of 2006.

In 2005, Seapower Pacific Pty Ltd was acquired by UK based Renewable Energy Holdings PLC. As part of the acquisition, the original Australian owners, Carnegie Corporation (ASX:CNM), Pacific Hydro, Burns group & Seapower Pty Ltd each have an interest in REH. The project is said to have attracted great interest from overseas renewable energy bodies and with most Australian states now investigating desalination, such a plant which doesn’t consume plentiful amounts of electricity but rather generates it can only be a winner for reducing GHG emissions while ensuring Australia doesn’t run out of fresh water.

» Seapower Pacific Pty Ltd
» CETO Update - 20th November 2005
» CETO Update - August 2005
» CETO wave energy technology device update - 26th July 2005
» CETO Wave Energy Project