Wireless power transfer and energy harvesting solutions for preventing downtime in critical subsea equipment

Saheed Remi Kareem 1, Taiwo Oluwole Sobiyi 2, Christopher Chuks Egbuna 3, *, Raphael Oluwatobiloba Lawal 4 and Bamidele Ajanaku 5

1 Department of Business Administration, Nexford University, Washington, DC, USA.
2 Chevron Nigeria Limited, Lekki, Lagos, Nigeria.
3 Shell Petroleum and Development Company, Lagos, Nigeria.
4 Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.
5 Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering and Technology, Ladoke Akintola University of Science and Technology, Ogbomosho, Nigeria.
 
Review Article
GSC Advanced Research and Reviews, 2025, 22(02), 071-079.
Article DOI: 10.30574/gscarr.2025.22.2.0042
Publication history: 
Received on 01 January 2025; revised on 04 February 2025; accepted on 07 February 2025
 
Abstract: 
Subsea infrastructure represents a critical component of global energy and technological systems, with operational reliability directly impacting economic and environmental outcomes. This comprehensive review examines the transformative potential of wireless power transfer (WPT) and energy harvesting technologies designed to prevent downtime in critical subsea systems. We conduct an in-depth analysis of innovative power transmission methodologies, encompassing electromagnetic, acoustic, optical, and hybrid wireless power transfer techniques, while evaluating their potential to revolutionize underwater operational equipment reliability.
The research synthesizes current technological advancements, addressing key challenges in underwater power delivery, including signal attenuation, material durability, and environmental constraints. By critically examining emerging technologies, we demonstrate how advanced WPT solutions can mitigate power-related failures, reduce maintenance costs, and significantly improve the resilience of subsea infrastructure. Empirical evidence suggests that cutting-edge WPT technologies can potentially reduce equipment downtime by up to 40%, extend operational lifespans, and create more sustainable marine technological ecosystems.
Our findings highlight the interdisciplinary nature of subsea power technologies, emphasizing the need for collaborative research approaches that integrate materials science, electrical engineering, marine technology, and advanced computational modeling to address the complex challenges of underwater power transmission.
 
Keywords: 
Wireless Power Transfer; Subsea Energy Harvesting; Underwater Equipment Reliability; Offshore Energy Infrastructure; Power Transmission Technologies
 
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