The WEDUSEA OE35 is a 1MW floating Wave Energy Converter (WEC) designed for deployment at the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) in Orkney. Key Work performed and main achievements:
• Hull: Designed for stability and efficient turbine operation, the hull is made of stiffened mild steel and has an 8.25m draft to ensure proper freeboard. It’s designed for easy towing and robust performance in the local wave climate.
• Turbine: The self-rectifying Wells turbine provides continuous power generation, supported by a control system for safety and performance monitoring. The design ensures efficient operation and easy maintenance.
• Electrical Power System & SCADA: The electrical system manages power fluctuations with transformers and a SCADA system for real-time monitoring and control. This system provides high efficiency power production and ensures smooth integration with the electrical grid.
• Data Acquisition System (DAQ): Developed by UCC, this system works alongside SCADA to collect and transmit data on environmental conditions, safety measures, and equipment performance. It features redundancy to ensure reliable data collection.
• Balance of Plant (BoP): The BoP integrates essential subsystems for power distribution, safety, and operational support. Key features include a backup power system and communication tools like fiber optics and 4G/LTE.
• Mooring System: A reliable three-line catenary mooring system, using a Vryhof MK6 drag anchor, ensures stability under extreme conditions, keeping costs manageable while maintaining operational integrity.
• Site Activity and Consents: EMEC provides a comprehensive test plan covering all necessary consents, safety protocols, and deployment steps to ensure a safe and smooth deployment process.
• Environmental Monitoring Program: A robust environmental monitoring plan focuses on biophysical interactions and seabird monitoring, supporting the project’s environmental impact assessment.
• System Integration & Commissioning: A detailed integration process ensures all subsystems work together seamlessly before deployment, with schedules aligning with procurement and construction timelines.
• Certification Process: The WEDUSEA project is working with classification societies to ensure the WEC meets industry standards and reduces investment risks, guiding developers through certification processes.
• Techno-Economic Assessment: The project aims to reduce the Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) by 32%, from 1,284.15 EUR/MWh to 873.69 EUR/MWh, through technical improvements. The assessment also highlights environmental sustainability, focusing on steel recyclability and CO2 emissions.
This innovative project is set to advance wave energy technology, reduce costs, and promote sustainable energy solutions
