Seaturns moves forward in wave energy trials

France’s wave energy developer Seaturns has started phase II of its full-scale trials in the Gironde estuary, Région Nouvelle-Aquitaine.

The site was chosen for its technical and maritime conditions, which the company said are “ideal for validating our demonstrator.”

According to Seaturns, Région Nouvelle-Aquitaine is considered a strategic location for marine technology and renewable energy development, with a strong maritime ecosystem, diversified industry, and recognized offshore expertise.

Supported by the Grand Port Maritime de Bordeaux (GPMB), Seaturns receives institutional and technical backing for this stage of testing.

“This phase II is a key milestone in confirming the reliability of our technology, preparing for its industrialization and commercial deployment, while strengthening the French and European wave energy sector,” the company said in a social media post.

The company designed its wave energy converter (WEC) focusing on cost efficiency, streamlined offshore installation, ease of maintenance, and minimal environmental impact. The company aims to reduce production and operating costs compared to existing wave energy technologies.

According to Seaturns, its technology harnesses ocean wave motion to generate electricity. The system consists of a cylindrical WEC, anchored using a patented solution that converts horizontal wave movement into a pitching motion. Inside the WEC, a water pendulum and air chambers create airflow that drives a turbine coupled to an alternator, producing electricity.

In October, Seaturns launched phase one of full-scale trials for its wave energy conversion system at Nantes Saint-Nazaire Port, marking a key step in the company’s transition from design to real-world implementation.