Abstract
The Reliable Data Acquisition Platform for Tidal (ReDAPT) programme gives the opportunity to develop tidal technology and also highlight the key issues and difficulties associated with the operation and maintenance of a tidal turbine through testing the DEEP-Gen IV n real tidal conditions. The turbine performance appears as expected with the power curve and the load factor close to prediction. Metocean studies and sea life interactions are ongoing with no indication to date of contact with marine mammals.
Voltage step changes were assessed and are within prescribed limits. Detailed voltage flicker records have yet to be assessed in detail but early indications suggest that these will also be within limits. Current harmonics were assessed from the Alstom connection and are within the limits prescribed by Engineering Recommendation G5/4(Reference 4). The power factor has been shown to be within the limits of the connection agreement at active power levels above 200kW, or 20% of turbine rating. The turbine exhibits a high capacitive reactive power between periods of generation.
The predicted Levelised Cost of Energy (LCOE) derived using Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) figures provides a modest IRR for the early farm developer relies on capital grant support which is in line with the tariff support provided by the 5 Renewable Obligation Certificate (ROC) regime (including all site fees, insurance and Operation and Maintenance(O&M)operations). There is clearly great opportunity to reduce LCOE though improved offshore operations and volume manufacture however tariff support will be required for many years until these improvements are delivered.