Israel and blue energy : a technological revolution at the Jaffa Port
Innovative technology
The technology developed by Eco Wave Power is based on an ingenious mechanism designed to maximize energy efficiency while reducing environmental impact. The system is based on large floats installed on existing structures such as dykes, jetties or breakwaters. These floats, in direct contact with the waves, rise and fall with the movements of the sea, generating a vertical mechanical movement.
When the waves lift the floats, they activate a system of lever arms connected to hydraulic pistons. These pistons compress a hydraulic fluid, generating sufficient pressure to activate a hydraulic motor. This engine then drives an electricity generator located on land, converting the mechanical energy captured into usable electricity, which is fed directly into the national grid. In addition, a major ecological advantage is that this technology requires no intervention on the seabed, thus avoiding the disruption of underwater ecosystems.
One of the main advantages of this technology is its modular, scalable design. Each unit can operate independently, allowing energy production to be adapted to the specific needs of the harbor or coastline where it is installed. What's more, the system is equipped with a safety feature: in the event of storms or strong waves, the floats are automatically raised above the surface of the water to prevent mechanical damage.
The current pilot plant in the port of Jaffa has a capacity of 100 kilowatts, enough to power around 100 homes. However, the company believes that real profitability will be achieved from the megawatt upwards, hence the development of a 20-megawatt project in Porto, Portugal, designed to power around 20,000 homes.
Eco Wave Power on Pattrn, the digital platform of the Weather Channel
Technology for diplomacy
The official inauguration of the Jaffa facility took place in December 2024, in the presence of Israeli President Isaac Herzog, Environment Minister Idit Silman and Tel Aviv-Jaffa Mayor Ron Huldai, among others. The event was also attended by international delegations from Vietnam, the Philippines, China and the USA. Of particular note was the interest shown by Middle Eastern countries with which Israel has strained relations, such as Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Iran and Turkey. Inna Braverman, CEO and founder of Eco Wave Power, says this interest demonstrates that “renewable energy technologies have no borders”.
This unexpected windfall could well turn Israeli technology into a diplomatic tool. It's important to understand that the interest in this technology is also driven by its economic potential: it offers the Gulf and Mediterranean nations a means of diversifying their energy sources, while reducing their dependence on hydrocarbons. In this way, the ability to produce clean energy could also contribute in the long term to reducing geopolitical tensions related to hydrocarbons.
While a number of challenges remain for widespread adoption, including regulation, marine energy legislative frameworks and access to bank financing, Israel's wave energy project is paving the way for regional collaboration, proving that innovation can serve as a bridge between peoples. At a time when the energy transition is a global priority and one of the challenges of our century, projects like this are a reminder that innovation and cooperation are the keys to a prosperous future for the MENA region and beyond.
Sources :
https://www.power-technology.com/news/eco-wave-power-israel/
https://www.ecowavepower.com/israel/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oWD4_LmxwUU&t=123s
