Scale prototype testing is to be performed after Phase 2.
Early plans are underway with site scoping and selection. The prototype testing is aimed at:
- Proving the success of the technology with a larger scale, grid connected converter
- Demonstrating high power conversion efficiency across a large range of wave heights and periods
- Demonstrating the solution provides a high availability of power supply
- Managing and automating the system controls
The scale prototype WEC will be field tested offshore in an onerous environment. The converter will feature a more sophisticated PTO which is under development for the commercial scale WECs.
Power conversion management and system controls will be automated in the scale prototype. Experimental trials will take place to optimise the conversion system under the widely varying environmental conditions.