INTERACT - Analysis of array systems of wave energy converters with regard to interaction effects in the LCOE and fatigue analyses

A few full-scale single-unit wave energy converter (WEC) prototypes have been deployed in the ocean. Further commercialisation requires installation of many WECs in array systems. The upscaling to array systems is a challenge due to interaction effects between WECs and their subcomponents. New design and assessment methods are needed which together with advanced simulation models
can be used to design array farms accounting for interaction effects for optimum system performance e.g. power, fatigue life, LCoE.
The project contributes to the development of such design methods and models. It is achieved by systems engineering, risk analyses and fully coupled hydrodynamic and structure response simulations. LCoE calculations are used to show how the LCoE is affected by WEC interaction effects in wave farms including the structural integrity of moorings and cables. Several show cases of different WEC technologies, sites of operation and array systems are simulated, analysed and optimised.

Partner organizations

• Waves4Power AB (Private, Sweden)
• Corpower Ocean AB (Private, Sweden)
• Seaflex AB (Private, Sweden)
• RISE Research Institutes of Sweden (Research Institute, Sweden)
• NKT Cables AB (Private, Sweden)
• Novige AB (Private, Sweden)