Gqeberha, South Africa – A new feasibility study suggests the potential for wave energy to power approximately 5,200 households near the port city of Gqeberha, marking a significant step toward diversifying South Africa’s renewable energy sources. The study, conducted by Eco Wave Power, focuses on harnessing the power of waves at the Port of Ngqura’s breakwater, and could represent the first onshore wave power station in Africa.
The findings, released on February 22, 2026, indicate a technical potential of roughly 8.3 megawatts (MW) of installed wave energy capacity. This assessment considered site conditions, wave resource availability, and preliminary system configuration, supporting the viability of integrating wave energy generation with existing coastal infrastructure. The project is being developed in collaboration with Africa Great Future Development Ltd (AGFDL).
Harnessing the Power of the Indian Ocean
Eco Wave Power, a leading onshore wave energy technology company, completed the feasibility study as a crucial step toward expanding its international project pipeline. The company currently operates a grid-connected wave energy power station in Jaffa Port, Israel, and is likewise pursuing projects in the United States, Portugal, Taiwan, and India, according to a company press release. More details about the company’s global projects can be found on their website.
The Port of Ngqura, located in the Eastern Cape province, presents a promising location for wave energy conversion due to its exposure to consistent wave activity. The breakwater structure provides a natural platform for deploying wave energy converters, minimizing environmental impact and infrastructure costs. The study’s positive results have prompted AGFDL to begin a detailed review, after which the parties will jointly evaluate next steps, including project structuring and regulatory approvals.
South Africa’s Renewable Energy Needs
South Africa is actively seeking to diversify its energy mix and reduce its reliance on traditional fossil fuels. The country faces ongoing structural energy supply challenges, making the development of clean, reliable, and locally generated power sources a national priority. With over 2,800 kilometers of coastline, South Africa possesses substantial long-term potential for wave energy as part of a broader renewable energy strategy.
“This feasibility study marks an key milestone in our entry into the African market,” said Inna Braverman, Founder and CEO of Eco Wave Power. “The results demonstrate meaningful potential at the Port of Ngqura, and we look forward to working closely with our partners to assess how this project could progress in a responsible and commercially viable manner and becoming the first wave power station on the continent of Africa.”
How Wave Energy Works
Wave energy technology converts the kinetic energy of ocean surface waves into electricity. Eco Wave Power’s technology utilizes floating devices that rise and fall with the waves, driving a generator to produce power. Unlike offshore wind farms, onshore wave energy installations are typically located near the coastline, reducing transmission losses and visual impact. News24 provides further background on the technology and its potential benefits.
Next Steps and Regulatory Pathways
Following the completion of the feasibility phase, AGFDL will conduct a thorough review of the study’s findings. The next phase will involve detailed project structuring, securing necessary regulatory approvals, and establishing development timelines. The process will require collaboration with local authorities, environmental agencies, and other stakeholders to ensure responsible and sustainable implementation.
The successful development of the Port of Ngqura wave energy project could serve as a model for similar initiatives along the South African coastline and throughout the African continent. It represents a significant opportunity to harness a clean, renewable energy source and contribute to a more sustainable energy future.
The parties involved will now focus on navigating the regulatory landscape and securing the necessary permits to move the project forward. A detailed timeline for the next phases of development is expected to be released following AGFDL’s review of the feasibility study results.
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