EMEC puts Pelamis WEC up for research

 
The European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) is seeking ideas on future learning opportunities and R&D projects which may benefit from utilising the Pelamis P2-002 wave energy prototype.

The P2-002 is a 750 kW wave energy converter, developed by Pelamis Wave Power, and tested at EMEC’s Billia Croo wave test site by ScottishPower Renewables from 2012-2014.

Currently based at Lyness in Orkney, EMEC is exploring options around using the P2 device as a test rig, envisioning that it could be used for testing materials, components, or other open-sea tests.

The device comprises five sections connected by hydraulic rams.

Measuring 180 metres long, and 4 metres in diameter, the device weighs approximately 1350 tonnes.

Neil Kermode, Managing Director at EMEC said: “A lot of learning and experience has already come out of the P2 development and testing programme, with a significant amount of data being analysed by Wave Energy Scotland who own the other P2 device – the P2-001.

“While it’s unfortunate that Pelamis Wave Power is no longer operating, we want to see their legacy live on and I believe that there will be opportunities to use the P2 device within other R&D programmes.

“We have learnt in 13 years of running a test centre that nobody has perfect sight of all the ideas that are out there. Therefore we’re keen to hear from anyone with an idea on how to utilise the technology.”

EMEC recently acquired the P2-002 from ScottishPower Renewables who had been developing the technology prior to Pelamis Wave Power going into administration in 2014.

“It is important to build on the investment and experience to date to support the next phase of the wave energy industry,” added Barry Carruthers, Strategic Innovation Manager at ScottishPower Renewables.