Riding a New Type of Wave

Loved learning to beginner surf while living in Cape Town—except when the board goes up over the wave and smacks you in the face. Then… ouch!

 I’ve been in the solar business for three years now, with both residential and commercial projects under the belt. We all know and love our trusty solar panels and wind turbines dominating the clean energy conversation—but what if the next breakthrough was floating just off the coast at Bloubergstrand?

Enter Dolphin Labs’ xNode, a cutting-edge, wave-powered buoy system designed to harness the endless motion of the ocean. More than just an energy generator, this technology could revolutionize ocean monitoring and—(my absolute best) —coastal protection.

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Powering Up with Waves — Reliable, Strong, and Always On

Unlike solar or wind, wave energy is constant. The xNode buoy captures the up-and-down motion of waves and converts it into electricity, outperforming solar-powered systems during cloudy or stormy weather. This compact, resilient tech is perfect for powering ocean sensors, underwater communications, and subsea microgrids—making offshore energy more dependable than ever.

Protecting South Africa’s Waters

Beyond energy, the xNode could help guard marine ecosystems. Equipped with cameras and acoustic sensors, it would be able to  detect illegal fishing activity off South Africa’s coast—protecting local fisheries without the need for expensive aerial patrols. These smart buoys provide real-time surveillance, offering a more sustainable solution for ocean conservation.   Current efforts seem concentrated in the U.S. and international waters for the moment.

Built with recyclable materials, a storm-resistant design, and eco-friendly batteries, the xNode is set to launch by late 2025 with strong government backing.

What’s Next?

Dolphin Labs is turning ocean motion into power and protection—and could very well help bring South Africa closer to a future where clean energy and marine security work hand in hand.

This innovation isn’t just about catching waves—it’s about leading the charge toward a sustainable ocean future. Can’t wait to see this piece of modern tech in action!

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