In an era of increasing global water scarcity, Oneka Technologies’ wave-powered desalination systems offer a revolutionary solution that merges environmental sustainability with economic viability. Unlike conventional desalination plants, which require massive amounts of energy and contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, Oneka’s floating units are entirely powered by the motion of ocean waves. This breakthrough technology could transform coastal regions and industries worldwide by providing a greener, cost-effective alternative to traditional methods.
The potential of Oneka’s technology extends far beyond its environmental benefits. Traditional desalination plants are not only expensive to operate but also produce harmful by-products, particularly brine, which can damage marine ecosystems when released back into the ocean. In contrast, Oneka’s systems generate significantly lower concentrations of brine, which, according to Chief Innovation Officer Susan Hunt, are about 25% saltier than the original seawater—a far less destructive output than typical desalination operations. This makes Oneka’s floating machines an attractive option for communities concerned about protecting local biodiversity while securing access to fresh water.
Global demand for desalination is projected to skyrocket in the coming decades. Over 300 million people already rely on desalinated water, and this number is expected to rise as climate change exacerbates droughts and depletes freshwater sources. Oneka’s scalable, modular approach offers a compelling solution for governments and industries looking to hedge against future water shortages. Each unit, capable of producing up to 49,000 litres of fresh water per day, is powered by just one metre-high waves. These machines can operate without the high electricity demands of traditional plants, making them ideal for remote coastal areas and industries with limited access to power grids.
Oneka’s commitment to innovation doesn’t stop at environmental sustainability. From a business perspective, the cost-saving potential of this technology is equally significant. Energy expenses account for up to half of the total cost of desalination, but by harnessing renewable wave energy, Oneka’s systems could dramatically lower operational costs. As the company scales, it aims to make desalinated water not just greener but more affordable, a crucial factor for widespread adoption.
Investors have taken notice. Oneka recently secured CA$12.5 million in Series A funding, bolstered by the backing of major players like Horizon Capital Holdings and AQC Capital. This financial vote of confidence reflects the rising interest in sustainable technologies that promise both strong returns and significant environmental impact. The fresh infusion of capital will allow Oneka to accelerate its deployment in high-potential markets such as Chile and California, where its systems are already demonstrating the viability of wave-powered desalination on a commercial scale.
Oneka Technologies is perfectly poised at the intersection of necessity and opportunity. As the global water crisis intensifies and the cost of fossil fuel-driven desalination grows unsustainable, Oneka’s solution stands out for its ability to deliver fresh water without further straining the environment. For forward-thinking entrepreneurs and business leaders, Oneka represents not just a compelling investment but also a pathway to addressing one of the most pressing challenges of our time—water scarcity.
(Source: BBC)