Finnish wave developer AW Energy has deployed its 350kW WaveRoller device for initial testing in the Atlantic Ocean off Peniche in Portugal.
The sea trials 820 metres offshore will test the performance of the device and fine-tune the WaveRoller’s control system to maximise yield.
“At this phase of the installation, we are collecting data 24/7 to monitor the performance of the device using motion, pressure and strain gauge sensors that are engineered in to its panel, foundation and bearings,” said chief executive Christopher Ridgewell.
“The data we are receiving indicates WaveRoller is operating well and performance is in accordance with our expectations,” he added.
The next phase of the project will see the machine connected to the Portuguese transmission grid via an onshore substation.
“Commissioning work is already in progress with the local authorities to connect the substation to the local grid which will ensure residents of Peniche can benefit from sustainable energy supply using wave energy,” said Ridgewell.