American wave energy developer, GWave has announced its plans for a 9MW wave energy project to be deployed at Wave Hub, Cornwall.
GWave, based in Portland, Maine, USA has spent the past decade developing its Power Generation Vessel (PGV) technology, an innovative wave energy device of a scale that is unprecedented, and is preparing to bring the first full-scale vessel across the Atlantic for installation at the Wave Hub site in Cornwall. GWave chose Wave Hub in recognition of the strong wave resource, infrastructure, and industry experience available there. Over recent months GWave has engaged with the south west and wider UK supply chain, including Falmouth based Mojo Maritime, A&P and Northumberland based Tension Technologies International.
GWave and its partners are now conducting detailed tests of the mooring system at the world-leading Coastal, Ocean and Sediment Transport (COAST) laboratory at Plymouth University.
“Our project launch at Cornwall’s Wave Hub facility will be a critical step in GWave’s program to bring to market cheap, clean electricity from the ocean. Wave Hub was our clear first choice for the full-scale demonstration because of the world-class facility and staff at Wave Hub as well as the deep maritime expertise and experience of South West businesses.” Robert Stoddard, GWave’s CEO
“Today’s announcement lifts the lid on a well-kept secret. GWave’s wave device is exceptional and we are excited by the prospect of it being demonstrated at Wave Hub in Cornwall. We look forward to working with them to achieve what will be a major milestone for the industry.” Claire Gibson, Wave Hub’s Managing Director
“Attracting GWave to Cornwall highlights a long term commitment to this sector, and I am excited about what this project will achieve in terms of tapping the ocean energy reserves off the coast of Cornwall to provide cheap, clean power to the UK.” George Eustice, MP for Camborne, Redruth & Hayle
“Two things really stand out about the Gwave project. Firstly it has been financed entirely by the private sector and is supported by a very strategically focused investor. Secondly, with a massive 9 MW capacity, the GWave generator is bigger than the largest offshore wind turbine. It could therefore open the possibility of large scale wave energy at a price that could compete with the cheapest low carbon technologies.” Johnny Gowdy, Director, RegenSW
“A sustainable future is one that will draw upon the benefits of renewable energy. COAST is pleased to be instrumental in GWave’s de-risking process as it journeys towards the open sea and deployment at Wave Hub.” Stuart Stripling, Hydrodynamic Facility Manager, COAST
“GWave has chosen Cornwall because we have world class assets and skills when it comes to marine energy. Our marine tech sector is an area of global competitive advantage that can deliver skilled jobs and sustained growth. That’s why it’s a priority for LEP support.” Sandra Rothwell, Chief Executive of the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Local Enterprise Partnership
“Cornwall Council is delighted to welcome GWave to Cornwall. This is an exciting project in so many ways, in terms of its scale, its ambition and potential to change our understanding of the contribution that wave energy can make to a low carbon economy. This is a further endorsement of our belief that Cornwall can be a global centre for research, technology development and expertise and the location of choice for businesses engaged in the development, deployment and operation of wave and floating wind technologies. These new technologies and new industries have tremendous potential to create jobs in Cornwall based upon our existing skills and expertise and we are committed to creating the right environment for the marine energy sector to grow and flourish.” Julian German, Cornwall Council’s Portfolio Holder for Economy
The full press release can be read here.