Oneka Technologies is transforming seawater into fresh water using its groundbreaking desalination technology powered by ocean waves.

This adaptability is made possible through a marine-friendly intake system and a brine discharge that has only a slight increase in salt content compared to seawater.

Transforming Water Sustainability

The Canada-based startup Oneka Technologies has revealed its innovative, environment-friendly desalination technology, which harnesses the power of ocean waves. 

This sustainable approach holds the promise of addressing a country's water demands while significantly reducing concerns about its environmental impact.

Of all the Earth's water resources, Interesting Engineering reported that a mere three percent is freshwater suitable for consumption, while the majority remains saline seawater unsuitable for drinking or industrial applications. 

Desalination plants have played a crucial role in repurposing this abundant seawater. However, desalination, despite its benefits, is known for its heavy energy consumption, predominantly derived from non-renewable sources. 

The International Desalination Association reported that over the past decade, desalination plants have doubled in number, with the industry anticipating a nine percent growth rate.

In a world shifting towards renewable energy and sustainability, an eco-friendly solution is a beacon of hope in addressing water scarcity while minimizing reliance on fossil fuels. Traditional desalination plants operate using one of two methods: thermal or membrane.

In the thermal process, seawater is heated to induce evaporation, separating fresh water from salt, and the resulting vapor is condensed and collected for use. The membrane approach, on the other hand, relies on passing seawater through a semi-permeable membrane to remove the salt.

While it is also energy-intensive, it is more efficient compared to the thermal method. Oneka's desalination approach represents an advancement over the membrane technique.

According to the company's press release, it utilizes floating devices anchored to the seabed and incorporates a membrane system powered by the kinetic energy of ocean waves. The entire system operates through mechanical means and does not rely on electricity.

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Oneka Technologies Machines Designed to Be Safe for Marine Life

AZO Cleantech reported that Oneka's desalination machines come in three sizes, with the largest measuring 26 feet by 16 feet. They require wave heights of at least three feet to function, and the largest machine can produce an impressive 13,000 US gallons of water per day.

These modular devices can be interconnected to generate even more substantial water output. In addition to its eco-friendly operation with no carbon emissions, the Oneka system is designed to be safe for marine life.

Unlike traditional desalination plants, which produce brine that must be further processed before being discharged into the sea, Oneka's machines are environmentally friendly.

They use three-quarters of the seawater, mechanically drawing it in to mix with concentrated salt from the membranes and then release it back into the sea without significantly raising sea salt levels. Seawater intake occurs through 60-micron inlet holes, too small to allow the intake of marine life.

Furthermore, the anchor systems are transformed into artificial reefs a few months after installation, contributing positively to the marine ecosystem. Oneka anticipates the commercial availability of its desalination machines next year.

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