What is Seaturns?
THE ENERGY OF WAVES TO PREPARE FOR THE FUTURE. Seaturns is a global leader in wave energy solutions for decarbonized energy. This project is not only about harnessing the power of waves but also about a breakthrough solution to produce freshwater or electricity from wave energy – a significant resource on a global scale. Developed since 2015 by two complementary partners – an entrepreneur and an engineer convinced that marine renewable energy is a solution for the future – Seaturns has already undergone technical and economic feasibility studies, leading to patented innovations that efficiently turn the energy of the ocean into clean power. Technology that transforms the natural rhythm of the sea into a dynamic, decarbonized energy source… a true game changer.
Main Benefit of Seaturns
Seaturns offers a clear set of benefits that demonstrate the remarkable potential of wave energy. Key figures and facts illustrate its impact:
- 0-0Gt of CO2 avoided thanks to the solution
- 0-0TW of projects to install
- 0k creation of more than 400,000 sustainable jobs by 2050
- 0M clean energy provided for over 700 million households
These figures represent not only environmental improvements but also a wide range of socioeconomic benefits that contribute to a sustainable future.
Innovative Technology
The technology behind Seaturns is as innovative as it is robust. Under the action of the swell, a cylindrical buoy moves horizontally, generating a back-and-forth movement known as heaving. This movement is ingeniously converted into pitching, the rotation of the buoy around its axis, thanks to an innovative anchoring system. Inside the buoy, a water pendulum and two air-filled chambers work together to generate pressure cycles, creating an airflow that turns a turbine coupled to an alternator to produce electricity. Simple and effective technology is at the heart of the design – a buoy made of welded plates comprising two coaxial closed cylinders, rigidity partitions, and a separating partition – all contributing to a resilient system that harnesses the raw energy of the ocean.
Proven Robustness
Robustness is a core characteristic of the Seaturns project. Its technology is designed without complex mechanical components, ensuring an operation that is as straightforward as it is reliable. Quick and economical installation is made possible – installations can stretch from a few meters to several kilometers offshore with lightweight intervention means. The design was validated through tests in real conditions, including extreme marine environments, so every component, from a fully submerged buoy to an ultra-solid cylindrical shape, has been proven to withstand harsh conditions. This robust approach ensures that maintenance is optimized: 100% of the technology is integrated into the turbine module, allowing for ease of removal for direct operations at sea. It’s a system built to last.
Environmental and Operational Efficiency
The environmental benefits of the Seaturns solution are as impressive as its operational efficiency. With a low carbon footprint—only 15 g of CO2 per kWh—the project significantly minimizes its environmental impact. Shared anchoring means further reduce the impact on seabeds and help to preserve the underwater landscape, while the overall weight is two to three times lower than competing solutions, meaning less steel is required during manufacturing. In addition, the buoy is designed to be 98% recyclable and minimizes visual pollution with a maximum emergence of just 3.5 m. This combination of features provides a sustainable, low-impact alternative to traditional energy sources, ensuring that ecological balance and economic efficiency go hand in hand.
Technical and Economic Evolution
Seaturns has evolved from a concept to a viable, real-scale testing project. Initial tests conducted in 2017 at the École Centrale de Nantes wave basin, complemented by extensive studies in 2018, demonstrated both the technical and economic relevance of the innovative energy recovery solution. With an ongoing ambitious R&D program valued at approximately 1.9M over two years, the project reflects a continuous commitment to refinement and practical implementation. The modular design and patented technology facilitate the grouping of multiple buoys to form a wave park, with shared anchoring increasing efficiency and reducing costs. This adaptable approach is ideal for various applications—from island states in development to offshore installations and military bases—making it a versatile answer to today’s energy needs… and an inspiring prospect for tomorrow.
Project Impact
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy – promoting access to reliable, sustainable, and modern energy.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure – fostering innovation and resilient infrastructure.
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – contributing to the sustainable urbanization processes through clean energy solutions.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – reducing CO2 emissions and addressing climate change impacts.
- SDG 14: Life Below Water – minimizing impact on marine ecosystems with low visual and physical intrusion.
Looking Forward
Recent milestones include the launch of phase 1 of real-scale tests at the Nantes Saint-Nazaire Port – a key step forward in conversion technology. The project continuously adapts to extreme conditions and evolving market demands, ensuring that the energy produced not only meets current needs but also paves the way for an environmentally sound future. With a focus on simplicity, adaptability, and commitment, Seaturns transforms the familiar motion of waves into a powerful energy asset. This groundbreaking solution is now equipping Offgrid-Microgrid wave parks with a minimum power of 2 MW, reinforcing national electric networks and extending its reach to data centers, offshore installations, and several other sectors requiring resilient energy supply. Every element of the design has been refined to provide clean, accessible energy, and the dedicated partnership with renowned organizations underscores the trust placed in this technology. As the global conversation shifts toward renewable energy sources, Seaturns stands as an example of innovation, efficiency, and sustainable progression – a catalyst for change in the age of decarbonized energy.
