Marine Renewable Energy

Test Facilities

EMEC, Orkney

The European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) is located off the Orkney Islands. This center is the first of its kind and provides a test bed for developers of marine energy technologies. It will officially open for use when the Pelamis arrives later this year.

www.emec.org.uk

NaREC, Northumberland

NaREC has developed a number of facilities for the testing of smaller prototype devices. Dry docks have been converted for both wave and tidal technologies.

www.narec.co.uk

RegenSW, Wave Hub

RegenSW have been looking into the possibility of developing a 'Wave Hub' concept off the South West coast of England. The intention is to create a testing facility for devices in arrays that will complement a national program of industrial development and aid the learning process for developers.

www.regensw.co.uk

Wavegen

Wavegen's advanced tank testing facility is suited to R&D in areas such as coastal fixed and offshore and coastal waters as well as marine renewable energy systems.

A row of eight paddles can produce regular, irregular and multi-directional seas. The wave making paddles have a novel force feedback mechanism which senses any reflections back from the beach or model, ensuring highly repeatable and stable wave conditions. Wavetank testing capability includes: measurement of extreme wave loads; motion response; mooring and marine operation simulation; together with concept development of marine renewables energy systems.

The tank is complemented by numerical modelling and the waverider buoy, allowing site specific testing.

For further information about hiring the tank contact Wavegen on 01463 238094.