SMC Marine’s pioneering work on the M4 Wave Energy Converter has been officially nominated for the 2025 Project of the Year Award in Western Australia by Engineers Australia. This recognition highlights the team’s innovation and technical excellence in delivering a complex marine renewable energy prototype in Albany’s King George Sound.
The M4 project is a standout example of engineering ingenuity, showcasing:
- Local fabrication in regional Western Australia.
- Advanced deployment strategies, including the use of a 350-tonne crane to install a 28-tonne structure offshore.
- A collaborative approach to sustainable energy development, integrating wave, solar, and wind energy into a zero-emissions offshore microgrid.
The nomination aligns with Engineers Australia’s mission of “Advancing Society Through Great Engineering”, and celebrates the social, environmental, and technical impact of the M4 initiative. The structure was fabricated at the UWA Great Southern Marine Research Facility and deployed approximately 600 meters southeast of Seal Island in Albany’s outer harbour.
This milestone reflects SMC Marine’s commitment to supporting wave energy innovation in Albany. We are proud to be in active discussions with two additional proponents to assist in the deployment of their wave energy technologies—further strengthening our role in advancing marine renewable energy in the region.
SMC Marine’s Pete Philipp and Manuel Grosshans attended the WA Division’s award ceremony. Manuel shares his reflections in this LinkedIn post, highlighting the pride and purpose that come with contributing to a profession that shapes communities and drives progress.
Click here to find out more about the M4 Wave Energy Project
Click here to find out more about the Engineers Australia Excellence Awards 2025

Source: EAEA2025_Showcase booklet_Local Winners_V6.pdf