Generator selection for offshore oscillating water column wave energy converters

Abstract

In the field of wind energy, electrical generator solutions have converged on a small number of technologies, for specific technical and economic reasons. This paper investigates whether a similar rationale exists within the field of oscillating water column, wave energy converters. The predicted performance of the various generator options within a typical wave regime is validated by means of a time-domain MATLAB/Simulink model. The suitability or otherwise of brushed machines in the offshore marine environment is examined in detail. Each generator configuration is then modelled and the annual energy output for a typical wave climate assessed with consideration being given to the impact of speed control on the energy output.