EC-OG switched on the Subsea Power Hub (SPH) for the first time yesterday (13/04). The ocean current energy conversion system was successfully installed Friday, 14 April, and is now fully operational.
The unit, which is being tested at EMEC’s Shapinsay sound test site, is currently performing in line with the technical predications. The next step is to leave the SPH running 100% autonomously with wireless data monitoring over the summer months.
This testing validates the technical capability of the system which has been designed to fulfill the need for cost-effective and reliable subsea power. This ground-breaking subsea hybrid drive system uses a combination of a marine energy convertor coupled directly to a lithium based energy storage system.
Robert Cowman, Engineering Director at EC-OG said: “Although the weather was not on our side, we were still able to successfully complete the installation and commence testing ahead of schedule. The system is performing very well and I’m pleased at how quickly the results are correlating with the theoretical basis for the test.
"Having a vertical axis turbine, means that the SPH is operating effectively in these unpredictable, sporadic flow conditions. Thanks go to the EC-OG team as well as those who have helped us at EMEC, Laesk Marine, Castle View and Scottish Enterprise.”