Wave Energy Scotland has initiated a project with the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) to capture the knowledge and experience amassed in Orkney through testing of wave energy devices in real sea conditions.
Results from this study are intended to “support and inform the wave energy converter (WEC) designs currently under development,” a press release says. “Taking the requirements of open-water testing into consideration at an early stage of the design process will ultimately improve WEC readiness for deployment in real sea conditions.”
A set of guidance documents will be produced, focusing on real-sea experience in compliance, handling, installation, and operations and maintenance of devices. The findings will also make it easier and quicker for developers to identify the services available to support their projects, according to a press release.
“To date, more marine energy converters have been deployed in Orkney than at any other site in the world,” says Elaine Buck, technical manager of EMEC. “Our supply chain therefore has unprecedented experience in supporting installations and operations at sea.”
Wave Energy Scotland is fully funded by the Scottish government and will support wave energy technology development until the technical and commercial risks are low enough for private investment to re-enter the sector.
EMEC was established in 2003 to test wave and tidal energy converters in real sea conditions. To date, EMEC has hosted 16 wave and tidal energy clients from nine countries with a total of 25 marine energy devices.
To express interest in being involved in this project, contact Elaine Buck at [email protected] by June 2.
