Wave & tidal power |
Harnessing the power of the oceans
IWP&DC delves into the state of wave and tidal energy developments worldwide, highlighting groundbreaking projects, technological advancements, and the challenges that must be overcome. From the rugged coastlines of Scotland to the innovative shores of Japan, each case study provides a snapshot of how different regions are leveraging their unique marine environments to harness ocean energy. Join us as we explore the dynamic and evolving field of wave and tidal energy, and its promise for a sustainable future
Below: In May, Minesto announced it had reached a significant milestone with its tidal kite Dragon 12, marking three months of uninterrupted testing since its installation in February 2024
AS THE WORLD GRAPPLES with the pressing need to transition to sustainable energy sources, the immense power of our oceans offers a promising solution. Wave and tidal energy, harnessed from the natural rhythms and movements of seawater, represent untapped and renewable energy sources that could significantly contribute to reducing global carbon emissions. These technologies are at the forefront of the blue energy revolution, providing clean, predictable, and reliable power. In recent years, significant advancements have been made in wave and tidal energy technologies, driven by a combination of innovation, government support, and increasing environmental awareness. Pioneering projects around the globe are demonstrating the viability and potential of these energy sources, leading to a burgeoning industry poised to play a key role in the global energy landscape. One notable development is a new report from LUT University Finland, highlighting the pivotal role of wave energy in achieving a cost-effective net zero energy system. According to the research findings, the UK should aim to harness 27GW of wave energy to realize this ambitious goal. This report coincides with a significant milestone for Swedish developer CorPower, who recently announced the successful commissioning of its first full-scale wave energy device. The report from LUT University delved into various scenarios for the UK and Ireland to transition to a 100% renewable energy system by 2050. Among these scenarios, one stood out: harnessing 27GW of wave energy capacity. This capacity is deemed essential to meet the burgeoning electricity demands projected to triple by 2050 while ensuring the lowest cost for a net zero energy system. CorPower Ocean’s breakthrough, marked by the successful deployment of its C4 machine off the coast of northern Portugal, addresses historical challenges faced by wave energy technologies, including survivability in storm conditions and efficient power generation in normal sea states. Richard Arnold, Marine Energy Council Policy Director, commented, “CorPower Ocean’s commercial-scale breakthroughs in Portugal demonstrate that wave energy is ready to realize its crucial role in a secure and cost-effective transition to net zero.” This sentiment is echoed by the LUT University report, which reinforces the importance of wave energy in the UK’s energy transition.
36 | August 2024 |
www.waterpowermagazine.com
The Marine Energy Council advocates for consistent support and ambitious targets, urging at least 300MW of wave energy deployment by 2035. This call comes in the wake of the organization’s recent testimony to the UK Government’s Energy Security and Net Zero Select Committee, emphasizing the opportunity to embed UK content in marine energy projects. Anders Jansson, Head of Business Development at CorPower Ocean, hailed the recent progress as an inflection point for wave energy, signaling its readiness for widescale adoption. “We’ve taken giant leaps in recent years to prove wave energy technology at commercial scale. Our latest progression marks a crucial milestone for the sector addressing the two major obstacles which have hampered commercial adoption to date – survivability and efficient power generation in normal ocean conditions,” he said. LUT University’s research underscores the economic attractiveness of wave power for the entire energy system. The report emphasizes the need for a comprehensive renewable energy mix, including wind, solar, wave, tidal, geothermal, biomass, and hydropower, to achieve 100% renewable energy. Researchers believe a fossil-nuclear approach with less sustainability and higher costs can be avoided.
Tidal energy Transitioning to tidal energy, Inyanga Marine Energy
Group and Verdant Morlais Ltd (VML) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to develop a 4.9MW tidal stream energy project at Morlais in Wales. This project is part of the largest consented tidal energy scheme in Europe. The new project will be located near Inyanga’s 10MW project, which was awarded through the UK Government’s ‘Contracts for Difference’ Allocation Round 5 in September 2023. Inyanga will use its patented HydroWing tidal stream technology for this initiative. VML, a joint venture between Verdant Power, Inc. and Duggan Brothers Contractors Ltd, also secured a 4.9MW tidal project at Morlais in the same allocation round. Joe Klein, VML Board Director, commented,
“Verdant Morlais is delighted to announce this new partnership with Inyanga Marine Energy Group. Connected to the national grid and with all necessary infrastructure provided, the Morlais demonstration site is unique worldwide and represents a significant opportunity for the tidal energy industry in general. We
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