Plans are underway to install and demonstrate a multi-megawatt PelaGen wave energy converter (WEC) array developed by Marine Power Systems at the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) in Orkney, Scotland.

The WEC will occupy two berths at EMEC’s Billia Croo wave test site, where rigorous sea conditions and on-site grid connection will enable Marine Power Systems to test its device in seas with some of the highest wave energy potential in Europe. Power produced during the demonstration phase will be exported into the U.K. national grid.

PelaGen wave energy converters on a PelaFlex platform. Source: Marine Power Systems

The PelaGen WEC design has a unique wave energy capture mechanism enabling energy to be harnessed during the heave and surge of a wave. Each device is designed to capture over a megawatt of power. Each WEC will be deployed on a PelaFlex modular floating platform, featuring a tetrahedral design to provide enhanced stability. The platform has a low overall steel mass with only 10 primary, and four distinct, parts. PelaFlex has been designed to deliver low cost across the entire product lifecycle.