Could a “snake” contribute to clean energy generation? The answer is affirmative with the Anaconda Lobe-Tendon, an innovative initiative aimed at harnessing wave energy. This technology represents a novel method of capturing energy from ocean waves.
The Anaconda consists of a sealed, water-filled rubber tube anchored to the seabed. This device utilizes the bulge wave phenomenon, where ocean waves traveling along the tube generate bulge waves within it. When the speed of the ocean waves aligns closely with that of the internal bulge waves, the bulge wave effectively “surfs” ahead of the ocean wave, resulting in a resonant energy transfer.
Specifically, the outer tube is constructed from reinforced natural rubber, selected for its strength, flexibility, and resilience in harsh marine environments. The internal tendons are crafted from high-performance natural rubber. As ocean waves pass through the flexible tube, pressure bulges form within the structure. These bulges move toward a power take-off system at the end of the tube, where the energy is converted into clean electrical power. By matching the speed of the internal bulge waves with the ocean waves, energy production can be maximized.
The device is designed to be manufactured in various lengths to accommodate different climatic conditions and can be deployed individually or as part of an array. The ultimate aim is for the Anaconda Lobe-Tendon to provide energy to island communities, offshore facilities, and integrate with the power grid.
Recently, Checkmate Flexible Engineering secured a £750,000 grant from the UK”s national innovation agency, Innovate UK, to expedite the technology”s development. The 18-month initiative, named Môr Neidr (which translates to “sea snake” in Welsh), seeks to position Southwest Wales as a hub for marine renewable energy.
Collaborating with partners such as Swansea University, CGEN Engineering, Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult, and Wave Venture, the project will enhance materials, testing, and research infrastructure in the region. This collective effort will advance the technological readiness and performance of the Lobe-Tendon Anaconda, laying the groundwork for upcoming sea trials.
Paul Auston, Director of Checkmate Flexible Engineering, expressed enthusiasm about the grant, stating, “This funding enables us to expedite the development of the Anaconda and build upon the innovations already achieved by our team, setting a clear path toward future sea trials. This is an exciting advancement not only for Checkmate but for the future of wave energy in Wales, where we see significant potential for delivering clean, predictable energy on a commercial scale.”
Unlike many existing wave energy technologies that rely on large, expensive, rigid structures, the flexible design of the Anaconda Lobe-Tendon utilizes less material per unit of power produced. This not only lowers costs but also capitalizes on the natural compliance and proven durability of rubber in challenging marine environments.
Through continuous research, the company has achieved considerable improvements, cutting the required material by over 70% while effectively addressing key identified risks without sacrificing performance. The Anaconda Lobe-Tendon technology is the culmination of a 16-year research journey.
Initially invented by Rod Rainey, a specialist in floating offshore structures, and the late Professor Francis Farley, who dedicated 35 years to wave energy, Checkmate Sea Energy acquired the rights and patents for this technology in 2007 to continue its research and development until it reached commercial viability.
In 2009, the Anaconda Wave Energy Converter (WEC) received support from the Carbon Trust. Their independent assessment highlighted its potential to significantly reduce the costs associated with wave energy. The Anaconda underwent various wave tank tests to evaluate power output, performance, and scalability, demonstrating impressive energy generation capabilities and a lifespan exceeding 12 years.
After initial successful trials in 2015, the Anaconda WEC received funding from Wave Energy Scotland, which furthered the technology”s development. However, in 2019, funding was ceased, which limited plans for a quarter-scale ocean test. This led the Checkmate Sea Energy team to reassess their previous 13 years of work to redesign the technology.
During this review, modifications were made to develop a lower-cost and more scalable WEC through the innovative Lobe-Tendon technology, created by Mark Prentice. Tests conducted by Wave Venture confirmed the advantages of the Lobe-Tendon technology, showing a reduction in the necessary tube material by over 70% and simultaneous enhancements in power capture efficiency.
Currently, the device”s development has relied on private funding, yet substantial financial support will be crucial for advancing to full ocean trials. There remains a clear market opportunity as many of the more than 11,000 inhabited islands worldwide depend on diesel-generated electricity, which the Anaconda could replace with renewable energy solutions.
Thus, this innovative “snake” may very well represent a promising glimpse into a sustainable future.
