Barbados Is Moving To Sustainable Innovation With Wave Power Park

In a groundbreaking move towards sustainability and innovation, Export Barbados (BIDC) has partnered with Seabased Group to establish a wave power park aimed at advancing green hydrogen research and development.

The memorandum of understanding (MOU), signed on June 7, 2024, outlines the creation of a 2 megawatt (MW) pilot wave power park, with plans to expand to 10MW or more. This facility will serve as a crucial input to BIDC’s green hydrogen production, marking a significant step in the island’s energy transition.

Mark Hill, CEO of BIDC, impressed by the durability and sustainability of Seabased’s technology, emphasized the importance of innovative solutions for energy transitions, particularly for island nations. "We have to think not only about the land Barbadians inhabit but the vast expanse of ocean surrounding Barbados, maximizing the potential to sustainably harness the blue resources within our Exclusive Economic Zone," Hill stated. This forward-thinking approach aims to green Barbados’ industrial operations by leveraging the ocean’s untapped potential.

Laurent Albert, CEO of Seabased, highlighted the project’s potential to harvest reliable, renewable ocean energy without disrupting other vital industries like tourism. "Islands like Barbados are unique harbours of beauty and biodiversity, and we want to help them meet their energy needs in a way that protects their special ecosystem," Albert remarked.

This collaboration is part of BIDC’s broader strategy to diversify Barbados’ energy mix and reduce its reliance on imported fossil fuels.  By prioritizing sustainable base-load electrical energy, BIDC aims to advance its industrial green hydrogen research and development. This project aligns with Barbados’ commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the "Barbados is Life" development framework.

Barbados’ initiative both sets a precedent for other Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and showcases the island’s dedication to ethical and innovative use of its ocean resources, paving the way for a sustainable future.

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