The Hague-based Wave Energy Collective (Weco) Collaborates with Holland Shipyards Group on Kaizen 2.0 Wave Energy Converter
The Hague-based Wave Energy Collective (Weco) has entered the building phase of its upgraded wave energy converter (WEC), Kaizen 2.0, in partnership with Holland Shipyards Group.
The project builds on a longstanding collaboration between Weco and the Dutch shipyard, which supported the developer’s initial prototype. The partnership also extends to Weco’s offshore charging initiative, E-Sea Charging, aimed at providing autonomous vessels with access to clean power at sea.
Weco expressed their appreciation for Holland Shipyards Group’s technical expertise and hands-on approach in a recent social media post. They highlighted the shipyard’s involvement in both the Kaizen 2.0 project and the E-Sea Charging initiative.
During a recent visit to the shipyard, Weco representatives were updated on a hybrid-electric ferry under construction, showcasing cleaner propulsion systems integrated into maritime operations.
Weco’s WEC taking shape
The shipyard is actively involved in building vessels with hybrid and fully electric technologies, including coasters and a Construction Support Vessel with advanced features like wind-assisted propulsion systems and battery storage.
The Kaizen 2.0 device, an upgraded version of Weco’s previous prototype, is expected to incorporate design improvements. Weco has not disclosed a timeline for testing the new device at sea.
In December 2024, Weco achieved a milestone as their Kaizen WEC generated its first power. Additionally, the company received support from TEAMER’s 15th funding call to optimize the Kaizen WEC, aiming for a 40% reduction in the levelized cost of energy (LCOE) through enhancements guided by Sandia National Laboratories and the WecOptTool.