Wello’s Penguin Wave Energy Converter Performs Successfully

Finnish wave energy developer, Wello Ltd, has released first testing results of the Penguin wave energy converter installed in Orkney, Scotland.

The Penguin wave energy converter is a floating device connected to mooring system and to the grid with 11kV cable. Initial results confirmed efficient rotating movement of the device even in smaller waves than originally anticipated. Installation has been followed by in-depth data collection and further analysis of collected data.

Data covering a period of few weeks after the installation has now been analysed. Analysis of the data from the full size device is consistent with the data collected from the scale models in wave tank and sea conditions conducted during 2008-2011. Based on the obtained data the movement of the device is continuous and mooring system works as intended. This also endorses the previous performance estimates of the device.

“The Penguin is based on the form and these results show that scaling of the device has been successful. Now that the basic functionality has been proven we can concentrate on power plant optimization. That is to some extent more deterministic process since these components are re-purposed from wind power plants,” says Aki Luukkainen, CEO of Wello Ltd.

Collecting the data also gives valuable information, since scale model tests can be now converted to full scale reliably allowing cost efficient verification of new ideas. With data available from 1/18 and 1/8 models as well as full size device forms an important tool set for the company.

Wello Penguin is a unique and patented construction to harvest ocean energy. It is based on industry standard components, including a generator typically used in wind turbines, to allow scalable manufacturing by virtually any shipyard using existing manufacturing processes.

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Offshore Nieuws Staff, August 27, 2012; Image : Wello