A new wave-energy device has become operational off the north coast of Scotland.

Oyster is the world’s largest operational hydro-electric wave-energy converter. It harnesses the abundant natural energy found in nearshore waves and converts it into zero-emission electricity.

The device consists of a mechanical hinged flap, connected to the seabed ten metres beneath the surface. As it moves back and forth with each passing wave, it extracts energy to drive huge hydraulic pistons. These send pressurised seawater through a pipe to a normal hydro-electric turbine onshore.

The system is designed to be simple and robust, with few submerged moving parts. All the complex electronic equipment is stationed onshore, making it easy to maintain and reducing the potential for malfunctions.

Oyster is the only wave-energy device in the UK designed to be deployed in shallow waters, where the sea conditions are more consistent and the directional spread of waves are narrower. It can also generate electricity in almost calm sea conditions and continue operating in the worst of storms. A farm of 20 Oysters would provide enough energy to power 9,000 three-bedroom family homes.

Designed by Aquamarine Power — a world leader in wave-energy conversion, Oyster won 2009’s British Renewable Energy Innovator Award. “It’s a fantastic day for the wave-energy industry and for Aquamarine Power,” announced Chief Executive Martin McAdam at Oyster’s official launch. “We’ve proved what we always believed — that wave-energy can produce sustainable electricity to power our homes. The UK has one of the best wave resources in the world. Now it also has the best technology.”

Contact: Aquamarine Power,
10 Saint Andrew Square,
Edinburgh, EH2 2AF
Tel: +44 (0)131 718 6011
Website: www​.aquamarinepower​.com

Oyster, the world’s largest working
hydro-electric wave-energy converter
Photo: © Aquamarine Power