Report TNO: High potential for water as a sustainable energy source

The research was commissioned by the Waddenfonds and conducted in collaboration with provincial and local authorities, as well as strategic partners, including Invest-NL. The study focuses on harnessing wave energy, tidal energy, and the difference in salt concentration between fresh and saltwater for electricity generation. These methods are not only sustainable but also offer potential for consistent energy supply, providing a stable complement to wind and solar energy. The need for sectoral collaboration and investments in market development and scaling to commercial levels is emphasized.

Invest-NL recognizes the importance of diverse sustainable energy sources for the transition to a fully sustainable energy supply. In the Netherlands, approximately ten companies are developing various EuW solutions. Further product and market development is essential for the scaling and operation of these technologies. While Invest-NL does not expect EuW to play a major role at the national level, it sees significant regional and international opportunities.

In addition to co-financing the TNO research, Invest-NL has previously invested in the tidal energy developer Seaqurrent. The Netherlands distinguishes itself internationally with its innovative offshore manufacturing industry. Thanks to our maritime engineering expertise and research institutions, promising technologies are emerging that can have a global impact. Invest-NL recognizes the importance of further developing and scaling these technologies.