Experimental results from sea trials of an offshore wave energy system

TLDR

Future grid‑supplying energy production will require wave‑power plant parks to mitigate power fluctuations. A full‑scale prototype installed off Sweden’s west coast verified the wave‑energy converter concept, demonstrating load‑dependent energy absorption, voltage and power output, and that the directly driven linear generator’s overload capability is critical while optimal resistive load remains constant across wave climates.

Abstract

A full-scale prototype of a wave power plant has been installed off the Swedish west coast and the overall wave energy converter concept has been verified. Initial results have been collected and significant insights discovered. Energy absorption dependency on load as well as output voltage and power is demonstrated. It is shown that great overload capability of the directly driven linear generator is critical, and indicated that, for resistive loads, optimal load does not vary with wave climate. Future grid supplying energy production would necessitate parks of wave power plants in order to reduce power fluctuations.