Abstract
This Document describes the results of a system level design, performance and cost study for both a feasibility demonstration pilot plant and a commercial size in-stream tidal power plant installed in Tacoma Narrows. For purposes of this design, the Washington (WA) stakeholders selected the Marine Current Turbine (MCT) tidal in-stream energy conversion (TISEC) device for deployment at Point Evans. The study was carried out using the methodology and standards established in the Design Methodology Report, the Power Production Performance Methodology Report and the Cost Estimate and Economics Assessment Methodology Report.
This study evaluates a MCT SeaGen device consisting of two horizontal-axis rotors and power trains (gearbox, generator) attached to a supporting monopile by a cross-arm. The monopile is surface piercing and includes an integrated lifting mechanism to pull the rotors and power trains out of the water without the intervention of specialized marine craft. The pilot would cost $4.2M to build and produced an estimated 2010 MWh per year (716 kW rated electrical power). This cost reflects only the capital needed to purchase a SeaGen unit, install it on a site, and connect it to the grid. Therefore, it represents the installed capital cost required to evaluate and test a SeaGen TISEC system but does not include detailed design, permitting and construction financing, yearly O&M or test and Evaluation costs.