The University of Hawaii researchers are working with the state government and wave energy developer Oscilla Power and the University of Hawaii to test a new way of ensuring 24/7 access to emergency communication systems for residents.
The new system will use communication equipment, installed and powered by the Triton-C wave energy float of Oscilla Power. This system will be deployed at the Wave Energy Test Site of the U.S. Navy, off the Marine Corps Base Hawaii, which is managed by the University of Hawaii researchers.
Triton-C leverages wave motion to generate up to 100 kW of carbon-free energy. Triton is expected to produce up to 30 kW of energy, which will be supplied to the grid. The power generated will be more than enough for the communication equipment.
“Our wave energy platform has been engineered to withstand the punishing conditions of the sea to provide ongoing power to island communities,” said Balky Nair, CEO. “But now that same reliability can be leveraged to provide 24-7 access to critical emergency communications, a real double benefit for this type of application.”
The state of Hawaii has a topography that creates blind spots for communication signals. It is impractical to install communication facilities on every ridge. As a result, calling for help during enforcement and rescue activities becomes very difficult.
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Officials are optimistic that the new system will help solve the issue.
“When the state and the University of Hawaii came to us with this idea, we immediately saw the power of the innovative approach,” said Tim Mundon, Oscilla Power’s Chief Technology Officer. “It’s incredibly gratifying to not only be able to create clean power for the island, but also enable critical connectivity that could very well save lives.”
Once the new system proves successful, additional wave energy floats may be deployed offshore in remote areas for coverage.
