Wave Energy development in the SW takes a huge step forward as the first device is deployed at the Falmouth bay Test site.
The Fred Olsen BOLT “Lifesaver” wave energy converter was offically unveiled and launched at the Falmouth Bay Test site yesterday.
This scale device was fabricated at the nearby shipyard of A&P Falmouth as part of a consortium including A&P Falmouth, Supacat, Mojo Maritime and The University of Exeter. It now begins sea trials at FabTest and could after this be deployed at the grid connected Wave Hub site at nearby Hayle.
FabTest site, which is not connected to the grid, gives developers the chance to test devices in a near shore environment that is easily accessible. Tests include investigating structural integrity, response behaviour, mooring/umbilical behaviour, subsea components, monitoring systems and deployment procedures in moderate sea conditions.
FabTest is an important element in the technology development pathway offered by The South West Marine Energy Park and shows that the SW MEP. This launch by Fred Olsen highlights that the SWMEP is truly open for business.
For industry enquiries about FabTest please email info@fabtest.co.uk
Through the extensive marine experiences of Fred. Olsen related companies we have learned the considerable value that detailed, careful sea testing of new marine devices offers projects such as BOLT "Lifesaver". We very much welcome the initiative from Falmouth Harbour Commission, University of Exeter and the other partners to make the FabTest a reality. We are proud to be the first user of the facility seeing our wave energy converter deployed successfully.Tore Gulli, Project Director, Fred. Olsen Ltd.,
