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Shoreline wave energy
Pelamis sea snake
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Shoreline wave energy
Isle of Islay, Scotland
The Limpet unit on Islay has an inclined oscillating water column that couples with the surge-dominated wave field adjacent to the shore. The water depth at the entrance is typically seven metres. The design of the air chamber is important to maximise the capture of wave energy and conversion to pneumatic power. The turbines are carefully matched to the air chamber to maximise power output. The performance has been optimised for annual average wave intensities of between 15 and 25kW/m. The water column feeds a pair of counter-rotating turbines, each of which drives a 250kW generator, giving a nameplate rating of 500kW. The Limpet's design makes it easy to build and install. Its low profile gives low visibility, so doesn't intrude on coastal landscapes or views.
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Pelamis sea snake,
Orkney
The Pelamis project will become the first deep-water, grid-connected trial of a full-size wave power generator to take place anywhere in the world. Named after the Greek word for sea snake, the Pelamis wave power machine is expected to deliver its first power later this year after undergoing sea trials at the European Marine Energy Centre in Orkney. Designed and built by Ocean Power Development in Scotland, the prototype Pelamis is 120 metres long, 3.5 metres wide and 700 tonnes in weight. When floating on the sea, hinged joints between its articulated cylindrical sections move with the waves, powering hydraulic motors that generate electricity.
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Each single 750-kilowatt Pelamis could generate the same amount of power as a wind turbine and a 'wave farm' covering a square kilometre of ocean would provide enough electricity for 20,000 homes.
Click here for more information on the Pelamis sea snake
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