TM32 | Blue Energy: Global and Local Pathways for Ocean Energy Innovation

TM32

Blue Energy: Global and Local Pathways for Ocean Energy Innovation
Convener: Sharlin Sánchez Espinoza, Christopher Vega Sanchez | Co-convener: Paola González-Vargas
Wed, 04 Jun, 12:45–13:45 (CEST)|Room 6
Wed, 12:45
Blue Energy: Global and Local Pathways for Ocean Energy Innovation explores the expanding frontier of ocean-based renewable energy and its role in shaping a sustainable future. As the global community strengthens efforts toward energy transition, ocean energy—including wave, tidal, ocean thermal energy conversion, and offshore wind—becomes more attractive as a clean, reliable, and energy-dense source.
This town hall meeting will bring together diverse perspectives to discuss the global outlook and local realities of ocean energy progress. We will begin with a global vision, offering insights into the current status of ocean energy technologies, environmental benefits, and the role of international cooperation through platforms like the IEA Ocean Energy Systems (IEA-OES). Next, we will present Costa Rica’s local case, highlighting its wave energy potential, societal challenges, and academic and institutional efforts to advance ocean energy and integrate it into its grid. Finally, we will explore how cutting-edge academic research drives innovation to make ocean energy more feasible, scalable, and impactful.
Participants will gain a deeper understanding of how global strategies and local actions can converge to unlock ocean energy's potential, advancing a resilient and inclusive blue energy future.

We are pleased to invite you to a compelling round table discussion featuring panelists in the field of marine renewable energy.

Joining us is Ana Brito e Melo, Chief Operating Officer of WaVEC, with over 30 years of experience in marine renewable energy. She has led and managed high-impact projects for major energy companies, developers, and governmental agencies, making her one of the most respected voices in the sector.

Also participating is Christopher Vega Sánchez, Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the Costa Rica Institute of Technology, whose research focuses on mechanical design, simulation, and the development of wave energy converters. As an early-career researcher, he brings fresh perspectives on innovation and optimization in wave energy systems.

We will also hear from Dr. Emiliano Nelson Gorr, a physical oceanographer, PhD in environment and development, and researcher at the Politecnico di Torino (Italy). Dr. Gorr coordinates diverse projects to foster the sustainable implementation of marine renewable energy across Europe and Latin America. His active engagement with the Mexican Center for Innovation in Ocean Energy (CEMIE-Oceano), the Ibero-American Ocean Energy Network (REMAR), and the Pan-American Ocean Energy Association (PAMEC Energy) further underscore his significant contributions to the strategic advancement of marine renewable energy initiatives throughout Pan and Ibero-America.

The discussion will be moderated by José Luis León Salazar, Vice President for Research and Outreach at the Costa Rica Institute of Technology, and a recognized expert in energy systems.

Join us for this enriching exchange of ideas on the future of wave energy and its role in the global transition toward renewable sources.

Speakers

  • Ana Brito e Melo, WavEC Offshore Renewables, Portugal
  • Christopher Vega Sanchez, Costa Rica
  • Emiliano Nelson Gorr, Politecnico di Torino, Italy
  • Jose Luis Leon-Salazar, Consejo Nacional de Rectores, Costa Rica