Research Activities

Around two thirds of the earth’s surface is covered in water, it is therefore logical to look here for usable energy. The power contained in the world’s oceans is enormous, in the region of 2 TW. The annual accessible electrical energy around Ireland is broadly equivalent to that supplied annually by the ESB at present with an annual market value of approximately €2.7billion. This resource needs to be harnessed and effectively exploited.

All research undertaken at the HMRC attempts to take into account the impact upon the environment. It is generally perceived that wave power is less environmentally degrading than some other forms of power generation, especially in relation to atmospheric emissions. Wave energy devices represents a free, 'clean' source of energy - they produce no greenhouse gases or other atmospheric pollutants whilst generating electricity.

The centre aims to continue to move forward particularly in the area of applied research and product development.