Wave Energy in An Binh: Blueprint for Climate Resilient Islands

An Binh, a small Vietnamese island, relies heavily on diesel generators for electricity during the 4-month rainy season. Locals are familiar with renewable energy, as they use a solar energy system. However, when the sun does not shine, the remote island’s climate and economic resilience is hampered by dependence on fossil fuels and oil price fluctuation. Harnessing marine power using a patented wave energy converter is Korean company INGINE’s solution to this issue. More predictable, waves complement solar in providing clean and stable energy for An Binh year-round. The technology is part of a bigger picture for the islet, which aims to become “Carbon-free”: Vietnamese and Korean companies and authorities have teamed up in a 5-party initiative to increase local renewable energy capacity, improve energy storage and promote electric transport. Besides protecting inhabitants from diesel pollution, the project is meant to encourage local economic development, including tourism. In the future, some of the island's wave energy capacity may provide An Binh's desalination facilities with clean energy, transforming local water supply into a sustainable cycle. An Binh's approach to smart energy supply offers a blueprint for other remote islands to achieve energy independence and reinforce local development thanks to renewable natural resources.