University of Michigan Tested Wave Energy Prototypes
Researchers demonstrated devices on Beaver Island to explore potential power generation for remote locations.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Energy
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University of Michigan researchers recently demonstrated prototype wave energy converters in Lake Michigan near Beaver Island. The devices successfully powered a light and charged a cell phone during the test.
Why it matters
The research aims to provide reliable, localized power for remote coastal and island communities that currently depend on long-distance underwater cables. Wave energy is a potential supplement to current grids, particularly given its high power density compared to other renewable sources.
The U-M prototypes use floating and submerged bodies that move relative to each other as waves pass to drive a power takeoff system. This kinetic motion turns a powertrain linked to an electromagnetic generator, one of more than 1,000 converter concepts identified in current literature.
The players
University of Michigan
A public research university with engineering programs focused on renewable energy systems and maritime technology.
The details
The devices rely on relative motion between floating and submerged components to capture mechanical energy from water displacement. This mechanical movement is converted by a power takeoff system—a mechanism that converts oscillating motion into rotation—to spin an electromagnetic generator, which produces electricity. This approach is intended to provide a stable, localized energy source for areas like Beaver Island, which currently relies on underwater power cables extending roughly 30 miles from the mainland.
Timeline
Over the last two years, researchers met with Beaver Island community members.
The Tech Race
This research follows the path established by the U.S. Department of Energy's Water Power Technologies Office, which supports maritime energy harvesting. It adds to a competitive field of over 1,000 documented converter concepts as researchers work to optimize designs for practical, long-term deployment.
This research aims to bolster energy stability for remote communities like Beaver Island that currently rely on 30-mile underwater cables. Future iterations of these devices could eventually supplement local grids, though commercial availability and pricing remain unannounced at this stage.
The takeaway
The research demonstrates that wave energy can generate electricity in freshwater, even though it remains in the prototyping phase. The next major milestone to watch is the team's planned increase in power output as they move toward longer-term deployment testing.
What happens next
The research team plans to refine converter designs to increase power output for future, longer-term deployment cycles.
Further reading
For broader context on current renewable research in the state, visit Energy.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Asme.
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