The project involving this type of wave power began in 2012 when cardiologist Stig Lundbäck got the idea from looking at how the heart works inside the body. This is unusual wave power technology that is presented against previous solutions in the field. The buoy in the water, which moves two to three meters up and down, is reinforced with resonance when it generates energy from the waves.
Balancing future electrical systems
Wave power is a much more predictable source of energy than wind, for example: it is possible to make much more definite forecasts of where high seas will occur. Wave power also creates much more stable electricity and can even out the peaks and troughs generated by solar and wind power. Wave power will also be cheaper in the long run. Adding wave energy to the mix is an attractive way of balancing our future electrical systems, making it an important component in the switch to 100% renewable energy.
What can ABB help with?
Two medium-voltage motors; one of which will drive the test rig itself, while the other will assist with energy storage. Medium-voltage switchgear that powers the motor and drives the test rig, and medium-voltage switchgear in the buoy that will deal with the energy generated. ABB Power Grids Sweden will be supplying two transformers, one of which will be located in the buoy. Frequency converters, programming, installation and commissioning will also be provided by ABB.
Emphasis on renewable energy production is important if we are to cope with the energy challenges we face. ABB offers products and services that make a crucial contribution to enhanced sustainability. More than half of ABB’s global sales involve technology that is helping to eliminate the causes of climate change.
“We chose ABB because their expertise gave us enormous confidence. They were not the cheapest, but they did have the best expertise. ABB understood what was important to CorPower Ocean,” says Patrik Möller, founder and CEO of CorPower Ocean.
A prototype on a scale of 1 to 2 has been tested in the waters off Scotland. ABB is now involved in the next phase of the project, which involves building up a full-scale test rig. The plan for 2022-2023 is then to build a full-scale fleet of buoys so that the company can start generating wave energy in a power grid.
“This partnership is allowing ABB and CorPower Ocean to put together a team of people with the best expertise when it comes to wave power and sustainable solutions for the energy supply of the future,” says Ulf Hellström, Local Business Manager, ABB Motion in Sweden.
