Abstract
This paper describes the optimization of the power conversion chain and the engineering design considerations of an oscillating water column wave power device which would form part of a 2-GW power station. Novel features of the principal device described include the multi-resonant concept, which considerably widens the frequency bandwidth response, and the use of the simple highly efficient Wells self-rectifying air turbine in the secondary power conversion stage. It is concluded that using established technology wave power stations comprising sea bed mounted reinforced concrete structures could produce power for as little as 1.3p per kW-hr after the initial capital repayment period and thus the economics are similar to that of hydro-electric power.