Full-Scale WECs

Abstract

In this chapter, some of the concepts that have reached the full-scale stage are de- scribed in detail. Other examples could be given, but the analysis was limited to four main technologies: OWC (Oscillating Water Column), AWS (Archimedes Wave Swing), Pelamis and Wave Dragon, which are presented in sections 7.1 to 7.4, respectively. Each illustrates one particular power conversion mechanism that was addressed in Chapter 6, namely air turbines, direct drive (linear generators) and hydraulics. A subsection regarding overtopping theory is also presented, as it was not addressed in the previous chapter and is linked with one of the technologies (Wave Dragon). Section 7.5 gives an account of the operational experience gath- ered by the several technology developers. Such detail provides valuable lessons to those interested in the field and also to a wide engineering audience. To conclude, section 7.6 gives a brief update on test centres, pilot zones, a review on the most relevant EU funded projects and a case study related to one of the technologies.