Wave Hello to Ocean Renewable Energy 2021

The activities are very deliberately interactive and impactful to increase community interest, discussion, and knowledge of ocean renewable energy technologies – and their perceived connection and relevance to the subject. Participants will feel intensely involved in the process of energy production from wave motion, as they get hands-on in creating waves, comparing Wave Energy Converter technologies and monitoring energy readings on the multimeter. Discussion of ideas, opinions and experiences is encouraged with opportunities for the community to connect with science professionals and their work. This and the itional activities, for example a sandy seabed tank with a suction caisson demonstrator as part of the geotechnical engineering challenge, provide practical understanding of concepts that may be difficult to appreciate through static displays or other formats.
The ultimate goal is for participants to leave the activity with:
• an understanding of ocean renewable energy, its applications and the diversity of technologies that support it
• appreciation of the significance of the WA Great Southern region in ocean renewable energy, ocean engineering and climate action
• knowledge of Albany as an ocean engineering research and innovation hub and
• excitement for the process of discovery and culture of innovation that needs diverse teams.
Our aim is not only to inform, but to inspire through opportunities to interact with and question science professionals in these fields. It is anticipated the activities will significantly increase understanding of renewable energy and in particular ocean renewable energy. The activities showcase innovative research including technologies involved in ocean renewable energy and by showing working WEC prototypes, difficult concepts are more easily understood. The activity highlights how integration of technologies can help sustainably power our communities locally and globally and the important role the Great Southern can play in achieving this, sparking curiosity and interest in the community.