AW-Energy's wave energy device to use Wartsila parts

Finnish technology group Wartsila Corp (HEL:WRT1V) will supply components for and support the development of the WaveRoller wave energy convertor of compatriot AW-Energy.

The company said on Tuesday it will supply metallic bearing housings, composite bearings, lip seals and hydraulic couplings, while it will also provide installation services for the sub-assemblies. AW-Energy is working to develop the WaveRoller into a commercially viable product and will install this year a full-scale demonstration unit of 350 kW off the coast of Portugal, at Peniche.

The device consists of a submerged steel panel, which is located near an ocean shore. The waves move the steel panel and hydraulic piston pumps transfer fluid inside a closed circuit into a hydraulic motor that drives an electricity generator. Wartsila says that between 500 kW and 1,000 kW per panel can be produced, depending on the intensity of the waves.

“This innovative energy production technology gives us an opportunity to offer our products and expertise to attractive new markets,” said Les Creak, head of Wartsila Hydro & Industrial services.

Apart from Portugal, AW-Energy has projects initiated in near shore locations in France, Ireland and Chile.

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