OCTOPODZ: REVOLUTIONIZING OCEAN ENERGY WITH MIXED-MODE MARINE POWER SOLUTIONS
NEPTUNYA, an innovator in marine renewable energy, is transforming the future of ocean-based power with its OCTOPODZ energy converter—a groundbreaking device combining wind and wave power to deliver affordable and reliable offshore energy. As part of its ongoing development, NEPTUNYA will conduct open-water testing and validation for OCTOPODZ, aiming to create a cost-effective solution for clean energy that meets both economic and environmental goals. Supported by an NSF SBIR grant and recent accolades, including first place at the Cade Prize for Innovation, OCTOPODZ exemplifies the future of sustainable marine energy.
A New Approach to Marine Power
OCTOPODZ is a mixed-mode ocean energy converter, meaning it utilizes both wave and wind energy. Traditional marine energy systems typically capture just one form of energy, but OCTOPODZ’s dual-source approach increases efficiency by up to 30%, according to NEPTUNYA’s numerical models. This combined system has the potential to reach a competitive Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE), significantly reducing costs compared to current industry standards.
Rodrigo Griesi, NEPTUNYA’s founder, describes OCTOPODZ’s unique integration of wave and wind power as “a leap forward for offshore energy. By harnessing two energy sources in one device, we not only increase power output but also create a more consistent energy supply for remote communities and island nations, where stable and sustainable power can be a lifeline.”
Innovative Design and Cost-Effective Deployment
OCTOPODZ’s design prioritizes efficiency, resilience, and low-cost deployment, setting it apart from other offshore energy technologies. Its structure integrates wind-driven linear motion with the circular energy of waves into a unified drivetrain, maximizing electricity generation. This hybrid approach means OCTOPODZ can be anchored in diverse offshore locations and is towable, eliminating the need for costly on-site assembly. The device’s stability and storm-resistant features also ensure longevity in harsh marine environments.
The installation costs of OCTOPODZ are significantly lower compared to standard offshore energy setups. The anchoring system is simplified, further reducing expenses and installation time. These design choices make OCTOPODZ a viable option for regions where high upfront costs have previously hindered renewable energy adoption. This design innovation is possible due to the team’s ability to develop a digital twin of the actual device while building automation and optimization into each design stage.
Environmental Impact and Marine Habitat Integration
Beyond energy production, OCTOPODZ has been designed to contribute positively to marine ecosystems. The device’s substructure can serve as an artificial reef, promoting marine biodiversity while supporting ongoing research on underwater habitats. The environmental benefits extend to its low noise profile and minimized ecological disruption, enhancing its suitability for installation in sensitive marine areas. NEPTUNYA envisions OCTOPODZ installations as assets to the environment, harmonizing clean energy production with marine conservation.
Building a Sustainable Future
OCTOPODZ is ideally suited for areas where renewable energy is critical, including remote islands and coastal communities. The system can operate independently from mainland power grids, providing a sustainable energy source that reduces dependency on fossil fuels and enhances coastal resilience. NEPTUNYA’s goal is to make offshore energy a realistic and accessible option for these communities. By lowering the cost barriers to entry, OCTOPODZ could accelerate the adoption of marine renewables, contributing to a broader shift toward sustainable energy.
A Team Committed to Innovation
Led by a skilled team with backgrounds in mechanical and ocean engineering, aerospace, and technology entrepreneurship, NEPTUNYA combines expertise with a commitment to environmental responsibility. The company’s core engineers—Rodrigo Griesi and Kevin Russell—bring experience from fields including military jet engines and marine projects, ensuring that OCTOPODZ meets both technical and environmental standards.
This project also benefits from NEPTUNYA’s partnerships with major industry players, such as NextEra Energy Inc. and Florida Atlantic University, which provide essential resources for prototyping and testing. As OCTOPODZ progresses toward commercial viability, these collaborations underscore NEPTUNYA’s vision of pioneering renewable marine energy solutions. The team also contributes to various Open Source communities, helping to foster innovation throughout the industry.
Impact and Future Goals
OCTOPODZ has the potential to reshape the marine energy market, offering scalable, low-cost clean energy with a low environmental footprint. By providing a reliable energy source in regions vulnerable to power disruptions and severe weather, OCTOPODZ could support national energy security while advancing renewable energy adoption on a larger scale.
With its combination of energy efficiency, resilience, and environmental compatibility, OCTOPODZ stands as a promising solution for a clean, sustainable energy future. As Griesi notes, “Our mission is to tap the oceans for clean and affordable energy while protecting marine life. OCTOPODZ embodies this vision and offers a glimpse into the future of sustainable ocean-based power.”
