Falmouth-based wave energy developer, Seatricity Ltd, has redeployed its full scale prototype wave energy convertor to the Wave Hub test site.

Deployment and on-site commissioning of the Oceanus 2 wave energy convertor buoy has been in progress since mid-May and early results are said to be “highly promising”.

Seatricity’s MD, Andy Bristow, explained: “The great strength of the Oceanus 2 is its sheer simplicity.

“Unlike previous attempts to harness the latent energy of waves, our system is mechanically simple, modular, of manageable size and installations can be scaled for any requirement by linking more devices together.”

With the latent power of the oceans’ waves estimated to exceed the entire world’s nuclear power generating capacity, Bristow claims wave energy has many advantages.

“Wave energy is more predictable and enduring than solar or wind renewable energy solutions,” he said.

“Unlike traditional energy generation based on nuclear or petroleum products, there are no harmful by-products. Unlike solar energy, waves tend to be bigger when energy is needed most and waves continue long after the wind that has caused them has subsided.

“Cornwall has a wealth of maritime skills and expertise and an economy linked to the sea and we hope our future growth will provide an opportunity to sustain and expand this wonderful resource; providing more jobs and attracting inward investment for local regenerative benefit.”

Seatricity’s deployment has already involved a large number of local companies. A&P Falmouth built the Oceanus 2 device and the installation was supported by divers from Seawide Services and a support vessel provided by Keynmor Morlift.

The Oceanus 2 being launched at A&P shipyard in Falmouth
The Oceanus 2 being launched at A&P shipyard in Falmouth

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