Full Description

This document specifies the development stages of Tidal Energy Converters up to the preprototype scale (Stages 1 to 3). It includes the hydraulic laboratory test programs, where environmental conditions are controlled so they can be scheduled, and the first scaled system open-water trials, where combinations of tidal currents, wind and waves occur naturally and the programs are adjusted and flexible to accommodate these conditions. Full-scale prototype (Stages 4 and 5) development is not covered in this document.

This document describes the minimum test programs that form the basis of a structured technology development schedule. For each testing campaign, the prerequisites, goals and minimum test plans are specified. This document addresses:
a) Planning an experimental program, including a design statement, technical drawings, selection of scale and facility based on physical laws, site data and other inputs;
b) Device representation and characterization, including the physical device model, powertake- off components, foundation and mooring arrangements where appropriate;
c) Energy resource and environment characterization, concerning either the tank testing facility or the open-water deployment site, depending on the stage of development;
d) Specification of explicit test goals, including power conversion performance and device loads.

Guidance on the measurement sensors and data acquisition packages is included, but not dictated. Providing that the specified parameters and tolerances are adhered to, the device developer is free to select the components and instrumentation.

An important element of testing is to define the limitations and accuracy of the raw data and, more specifically, the results and conclusions drawn from the trials. A methodology of addressing these limitations is presented with each goal so the plan always produces defendable results of defined uncertainty.

It is anticipated that this document will serve a wide audience of tidal energy stakeholders, including device developers and their technical advisors; government agencies and funding councils; test centers and certification bodies; private investors; and environmental regulators and non-governmental organizations.