Tapping electricity instead of bunkering diesel? This is one of the key questions for electrification on the water. Kiel University of Applied Sciences (HAW) does not yet have a ready answer. But its wave power plant prototype "Aurelia WINO" shows where the development could one day lead: to self-sufficient power sources at sea. From autumn 2026, the system will be tested under real conditions for at least six months on the FINO 3 research platform in the North Sea.
More than just a buoy
Aurelia WINO" is not yet a floating charging station for yachts. HAW Kiel describes the project as a technology test for generating electricity from wave energy. The university cites mobile and self-sufficient energy supply at sea as possible applications, for example for research platforms, measuring stations or underwater technology. FINO 3 itself is also to be at least partially supplied with green electricity instead of exclusively using diesel generators.
Why the topic is interesting for water sports enthusiasts
When it comes to the electrification of boats, the debate quickly ends with the engine. The crucial question is often where energy should come from when travelling. This is why the Kiel project is so interesting. It's not just about a buoy in the water, but about an early building block for power supply away from traditional harbour infrastructure.
Tough test off Sylt
The trial operation is to take place in the safety zone of the FINO 3 research platform around 80 kilometres west of Sylt. The deployment is scheduled to last at least six months. There, the team led by Prof Dr Christian Keindorf wants to record how the system behaves under real offshore conditions. According to HAW Kiel, the average significant wave heights there in autumn and winter are around two metres. During strong and long-lasting storms, waves of up to ten metres in height can occur.
Transport via canal and Heligoland
The prototype was built at German Naval Yards Kiel. It is currently lying in a hall at the shipyard. In the coming months, final functional tests will be carried out and preparations will be made for loading. The base harbour is the Kiel Fjord. The almost 43 metre long "Fortuna Bluebird" will bring the system to its offshore position. The route initially leads through the Kiel Canal. A towing operation is then planned near Helgoland. Official authorisation procedures are still underway at the same time.
Anchored next to FINO 3
At the deployment site, "Aurelia WINO" will be secured with three anchors, each 120 degrees apart. A power cable is also planned, which will be laid on the seabed and connected to FINO 3. This would allow the platform to cover at least part of its power requirements directly from wave energy during the test.
How "Aurelia WINO" works
Technically, the system is based on a bar buoy with a floating body that follows the waves and moves vertically up and down. Guide rods drive two linear generators from the relative movement between the floating body and the bar buoy. These convert mechanical energy directly into electrical energy. The prototype is around twelve metres high and weighs around ten tonnes.
What matters in the test
According to HAW Kiel, the main focus is on the electrical components of the drivetrain and their reliability under harsh environmental conditions. Energy yields in kilowatt hours are also to be recorded during operation. From this, the project team also wants to derive the CO₂ savings potential compared to fossil-fuelled power plants. The project is being funded with around 660,000 euros from the European Regional Development Fund as part of the state's Economy 2021 to 2027 programme. Previously, the transport and installation concept had already been supported with around 140,000 euros.
Wave power for yachts? Still a dream of the future
HAW Kiel has so far been cautious in formulating its prospects. It mentions mobile and self-sufficient energy supply at sea, for example for research platforms, measuring stations or underwater technology. A charging point for cruising yachts is not one of the specific applications mentioned. BUT:
The appealing idea behind it
The more far-reaching idea is obvious. If wave power plants of this type prove themselves in continuous operation, permanently anchored systems in remote areas could generate electricity and supply it to maritime infrastructure. Charging points for electrically powered boats or yachts would then also be conceivable. Perhaps a buoy where you can moor, pull out a cable and recharge?
Videos on the topic:
Christian Keindorf, Professor of Offshore Systems Engineering at the University of Applied Sciences in Kiel, explains the functional principle
So much energy in waves
Lars Bolle
Chief Editor Digital
