ZOEX LTD & UMBRAGROUP

Context and challenge

Wave energy represents one of the renewable energy sources with the highest available energy density, yet its widespread adoption is still hampered by technological complexity, high costs, and operational challenges in harsh marine environments. Although oceans cover more than 70% of the Earth’s surface, traditional solutions typically require particularly favorable sea conditions, with waves of at least two meters, drastically limiting the potential for continuous energy generation.

In this context, ZOEX LTD, an innovative Scottish company active in the development of marine renewable energy technologies, aims to make wave energy a reliable, scalable, and truly competitive energy source.

The ZOEX solution

To overcome the limitations of existing technologies, ZOEX has developed a modular Wave Energy Converter (WEC) designed to operate efficiently even with waves as small as 30 centimetres. At the heart of the system is the Power Take-Off (PTO): a high-performance electromechanical generator, which is the key element for converting the mechanical energy of wave motion into electrical energy in an efficient, continuous, and controlled manner.

UMBRAGROUP’s contribution

For the development of the PTO, ZOEX chose to collaborate with UMBRAGROUP, an internationally recognised technology partner in the aerospace and industrial sectors, thanks to its proven expertise in precision electromechanical systems, power electronics, and high-reliability components.

The generator developed by UMBRAGROUP stands out for:

• High energy efficiency and low inertia, with a significant reduction in losses
• Compact and robust design, optimised for operation in extreme marine environments
• Minimal maintenance requirements, essential for remote and offshore installations
• Modular plug-and-play architecture, enabling rapid integration with existing marine infrastructures

Thanks to these features, the system ensures operational continuity, long-term reliability, and reduced overall installation and operating costs, helping to make wave energy an economically sustainable solution.

Value and results

The integration of UMBRAGROUP technology into ZOEX’s WEC has enabled:

• Accelerated project development through reduced technological risk
• A significant improvement in energy conversion efficiency
• The production of zero-emissions renewable energy, aligned with global decarbonisation goals
• A continuous and predictable energy source, complementary to wind and solar power

The solution is particularly well suited for off-grid applications and for coastal or offshore installations where continuity of energy supply is critical.

A strategic partnership

This collaboration represents a concrete example of how innovation and industrial reliability can converge to create real value.

“The integration of the generator developed by UMBRAGROUP into our project has significantly reduced development risks and costs,” says Ash Penley, Founder and CEO of ZOEX LTD. “Working with a leading aerospace and industrial company with an excellent track record strengthens and accelerates our innovation capability. We are excited to embark on many more projects together.”

The shared vision is also confirmed by UMBRAGROUP:

“The collaboration with ZOEX is a tangible step forward in the global energy transition,” comments Fabrizio Brandi, CMO of UMBRAGROUP. “We bring our expertise in precision components, electronics, and electromechanical systems to develop reliable and sustainable solutions capable of generating real value for the market and the environment. Together, we are opening new frontiers in renewable energy.”

Conclusion

The partnership between ZOEX LTD and UMBRAGROUP demonstrates how the synergy between innovative startups and highly specialised industrial groups can accelerate the transition towards a sustainable energy future. By combining vision, technological expertise, and manufacturing capability, the two companies are helping to turn the potential of wave energy into a concrete resource for the global market.