The Bombora wave power system is a system that converts the ocean’s wave energy directly into electricity using flexible membrane.
Located near to shore and fully submerged on the seabed, the system utilises a large membrane energy harvester to collect, concentrate and modulate the wave energy through the use of an air circuit.
The system has an onboard 1.5 MW air turbine generator located within the apex of its V-shaped structure. As wave passes over the system it moves air around the circuit and drives it through the turbine, which in turn spins the generator, creating electricity.
This electricity is then delivered onshore via an electrical cable and connected to the distribution network.
Bombora’s technology couples with both surge and heave motions within the wave. The streamlined body, the inclined or ‘ramp’ like membrane and body shape, the low inertia membrane and pressurised air system all combine to achieve this.
Take a look at the video of preliminary wave tank testing of the device.
Image/Source: Bombora Wave Power