A WAVE-POWER device that could provide a breakthrough in reaching sustainable energy targets was said yesterday to be is a step closer to commercial use.
Green Ocean Energy, an Aberdeen-based renewable-energy company, has developed a wave-power machine which attaches to an offshore wind turbine, to provide wind and wave power from one installation.
The economics of both machines would be enhanced because expensive infrastructure such as the foundation and cabling could be shared.
Green Ocean was able to develop its Wave Treader technology after securing £60,000 of funding from npower’s Juice fund: a scheme that supports the development of wave and tidal technology.
The financial backing allowed the company to put the device through a feasibility study into its commercial application. Wave Treader has since achieved proof of concept and a full-size prototype could be ready for testing next year.
Green Ocean managing director George Smith, who invented Wave Treader, said: “We have drawn on our extensive skills and experience in the energy sector to develop this technology.
“The support we have received from npower through the Juice fund has enabled us to take a huge step forward in preparing the device for widespread use in the offshore environment. These are exciting times for the company and we look forward to eventually seeing the device incorporated into offshore windfarms.
“The Wave Treader has the potential to significantly increase sustainable energy generation both in the UK and around the globe.”
Helen Steed, of npower’s Juice fund, said: “We are delighted with the results of the Green Ocean Energy Wave Treader. The device is the first of its kind, and shows tremendous potential in utilising existing offshore infrastructure to generate clean renewable energy.”
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