Power for Subsea Networks

The US roadmap for marine energy estimates installed capacity of 15 GW of wave and tidal power systems by 2030. Ocean Renewable Power Company, Inc. has successfully deployed and operated multiple marine energy units in Maine and Alaska and is now engaged in developing technologies appropriate for use at a smaller scale for powering of subsea sensor networks and other systems deployed in ocean environments. We propose to continue development of the autonomous turbine generator unit technology with specific concepts of operations to create a solution tightly coupled to end-user needs for the subsea sensor market. The existing autonomous turbine generator unit prototype will serve as the basis for provision of components for a planned proof of concept system to be built and tested in Phase II. The following Phase I technical objectives are proposed: Improve the ability of the system to generate electricity from low flow speed environments to effectively generate power from flow speeds from 0.5 to 1.0 m/s. Reduce system size to be more compatible with end user logistical constraints. Integrate design improvements noted in previous field testing for improved performance and durability into the ATGU. Demonstrate the technical viability of the ATGU in the blue economy by showing suitability of the system to a well-defined and specific end-user mission profile. ORPC will work with identified end users to develop a concept of operations and mission profile for a system that can provide sustained power for long term deployments. The autonomous turbine generator unit cross-flow turbine implements a variable pitch technique that provides higher efficiencies at low flow speeds versus fixed foil turbines. The ability to generate power from low environmental flow speeds is disruptive due to increased market applications and size. Persistent marine energy for subsea sensors and sensor networks, with longer deployments lengths is well aligned with the Department of Energy’s Blue Economy initiative. Industries that currently employ un-crewed underwater vehicles and sensors include defense, scientific research and observation, offshore oil and gas, and subsea construction and salvage. This is an area of emerging technical application and is poised to rapidly grow into a critical industry for the US.