CorPower Ocean to build wave energy plant in Scotland

Sweden-based clean energy firm, CorPower Ocean, has signed an agreement to build a 5-MW wave energy plant at the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) in Orkney, Scotland. The project, which will have 14 wave energy converters (WECs) designed for 15 years of operation, will become the UK’s largest wave energy facility when it comes on stream in 2029. It will be connected to the Scottish grid via EMEC’s Billia Croo wave energy test site.

The WECs consist of a 9m diameter composite spherical hull which drives the movement of the power take-off system from passing waves. CorPower Ocean’s WaveSpring technology amplifies the motion and power capture in normal sea states, and has a built-in storm protection system that locks down in extreme conditions.

Scotland’s deputy first minister, Kate Forbes, announced the project at a Glasgow energy conference. She told delegates: “With its abundant natural resources and unrivalled experience in marine renewables, Scotland is in a prime position for the development and deployment of tidal stream and wave energy to further add to Scotland’s renewable energy mix … This new project will create skilled jobs in Orkney, support a developing supply chain while reinforcing Scotland’s global leadership in marine renewables.”

CorPower’s head of Business Development, Anders Jansson, commented: “We are thrilled to be back at EMEC to build the first commercial wave farm. EMEC and Orkney offer significant know-how and an established supply chain, reducing risk and cost for the project. The UK’s renewable auctions will be key in providing a route to market for the Billia Croo project.”