Recovery Act - Centipod Wave Energy Converter

The 4.5MW Centipod ocean wave generating system, a horizontally stable floating platform, optimally yawed (active) to wavefront exposure has 56 80kW flotation pods driving hydraulic rams. Fluid drives the hydroelectric generating system providing cost competitive electric power. Inherent survivability in extreme seas uses methodologies from offshore oil production. The proposed plan will provide complete detailed engineering, of the commercial prototype within a two year timeframe. The objective of the project includes three series of scaled wave tank tests and validating the various subsystems and approach. The Centipod Project covers: 1) experimental validation of analytical tools/design, 2) levelized cost of energy model, 3) certification approvals, and 4) prototype commercial drawing package 5) final report DA plans to employ a system integration effort to bring about its commerical scale Centipod 4.5 MW device. The proposed effort will retire risk in the following areas: survivability, energy extraction optimization, and power takeoff.The Centipod Project is transformational because it provides a viable method for delivering utility scale power supply heretofore not possible with wave energy, and it can be realized rapidly by its short development time. Its viability is based on its competitive LCOE and power quality, which will be attractive to utilities targeting RPS compliance with renewable energy. Up to five-day forecasting enables efficient resource planning for utilities. Resource utilization estimated at 160MW per square mile, among highest of renewables. The U.S.-based Centipod will also have excellent export markets, particularly Europe, where wave energy is actively being pursued. The impact of Centipod is enhanced energy self-sufficiency and a reduction in emissions. A 100MW, 25 Centipod array will produce 310,000,000 kWh/year serving 29,000 households, displacing 310,000 tons per year of CO2 of emission from fossil fuel generation. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits: To achieve the aforementioned project objectives, DA has assembled a team of recognized ocean industry experts having on average >30 years experience in their respective disciplines. The major participants include PCCI, Re Vision, SFS and NNMREC Oregon State University.