Seaturns’ wave energy system captures ocean wave motion through a float’s oscillation and converts it into electricity using pneumatic technology. The company emphasizes efficiency and durability in its design. “Our system was designed from the outset to be efficient, robust and easily industrializable, which explains our sustained pace,” said Vincent Tournerie, Founder and President of Seaturns.
The SEM-REV site, managed by the OPEN-C Foundation, offers subsea infrastructure, environmental monitoring, and technical support to ensure reliable testing. “Providing a dedicated infrastructure greatly facilitates the work of manufacturers, who can then focus fully on optimizing their technology. This is precisely the mission of the OPEN-C Foundation. We are currently preparing the site and reception protocols for the Seaturns demonstrator,” said Yves Perignon, Scientific and Technical Director of the OPEN-C Foundation.
The agreement outlines terms for deployment, operation, and decommissioning, with the trial set to run for 18 months. The focus will be on technical validation, certification, and environmental impact assessment, and electricity generated will not be grid-connected. This project aligns with the SEAWEC program, aimed at industrializing Seaturns’ technology, building on the IAS-WEC project supported by Bpifrance, ADEME, and EU funding through France 2030 and France Relance initiatives.
Seaturns’ wave energy converter (WEC) features a cylindrical design anchored by a patented mechanism that transforms horizontal wave motion into pitching movement. A water pendulum and air chambers inside the WEC generate airflow to power a turbine and alternator, producing electricity. The system prioritizes cost efficiency, simplified installation, low maintenance, and minimal environmental impact. Seaturns plans to launch commercial wave energy projects starting in 2026.
The company’s recent sea trials in February 2025 at the IFREMER test site in Brest marked progress toward commercialization, confirming the technology’s readiness for full-scale offshore testing. This demonstrator project at SEM-REV represents a key step in advancing renewable energy solutions in France.
