The first phase of the project cost about 9 million Euros and generates power using 3 Pelamis Wave Energy Converters (PWEC) which are semi-submerged, articulated structures composed of cylindrical sections linked by hinged joints and are located approximately 3 miles off the coast.
The second phase of the project will install a further 25 PWEC and bring the total capacity up to 21MW, which will be able to meet the average annual electricity demand for more than 15,000 Portuguese households while displacing more than 60,000 tonnes per year of carbon dioxide emissions from conventional power plants.
Video below shows how the PWEC works…
UK will be the next to embrace the wave power with the Orcadian Wave Farm in northern Scotland and the Westwave project in Cornwall, southwestern England.
A very innovative idea. Of course, the structure will have to be maintained regularly while in the water. And it will have to be kept under very tight security since being out away from the populated areas it will be a prime target for sabatodge and terrorism. But a very good idea.
No doubt that water power is going to play a big part in whatever alternative energy sources are used in the future. Wind and solar also.
it will be great if the project works. its clean, and it sounds quite cheap.