Abstract
A novel stochastic model has been developed which allows for the prediction of Wave Energy Converters (WECs) array power time series, based solely on knowledge of an individual WEC power time series. The model is applicable for arrays of independent WECs.
The power from an array of WECs was simulated by deploying 50 individual WECs in a numerical testbed and aggregating the individual power productions. 51 differing WEC array scenarios were completed using four different WEC architectures, differing separation distances, wave directional spreading constants and device degrees of freedom. These allowed investigation into the normalized standard deviation and the frequency content relationships between the power from an individual WEC and an array of WECs. These properties were used to determine if the power from WECs within the arrays was independent.
WECs are found to be independent if the separation distance is greater than 212 m. If small differences in the frequency content of the power is allowable, separation distances of 98 m with directional spreading constants (s) of 15 are allowable. WEC architecture and movement degrees of freedom were shown not to affect independence.