CorPower Ocean has taken a decisive step in the evolution of wave energy by completing a geophysical survey off the coast of Aguçadoura, northern Portugal. This initiative paves the way for the deployment of its C5 technology and marks the start of the pre-commercial VianaWave project, a 10 MW plant designed to transform sea energy into clean electricity. energy from the sea into clean electricity.
Geophysical study defines the future of marine energy
Thanks to the authorization of the Directorate General of Natural Resources, Security and Maritime Services (DGRM), CorPower Ocean obtained a TUPEM permit allowing it to explore an area of 340 hectares within the PAER zone (Pilot Renewable Energy Zone).
There, an international team led by the firm TechnoAmbiente carried out the field work, complemented by the technical interpretation of Ternan Energy and the logistical support of the Portuguese institute INESCTEC.
Anchoring technology and high-precision data
The main objective of the study was to determine the suitability of the subsoil to install the UMACK vibro-installed anchor, a patented technology that allows the attachment of floating converters in demanding marine conditions.
For this purpose, survey tools such as multibeam sonar, side scan sonar, magnetometry and high resolution seismic reflection were used. These instruments revealed key information on sediment composition, seafloor morphology, and seabed seafloor morphology and subsurface stratigraphy.
Coastal electrification and energy transition
The VianaWave project is designed to integrate 30 wave energy converters (WECs) grouped in a CorPack, which will generate about 30 GWh of clean energy per year, enough to supply about 7,500 homes.
With its execution scheduled for 2028/2029, the plant will contribute to the goal of Portugal’s National Energy and Climate Plan, which calls for 200 MW of installed wave power by 2030.
A versatile solution for floating marine energy
The UMACK anchoring technology developed by CorPower Ocean has significant advantages over traditional piles. With a mass of 35 tons and a holding capacity of up to 20 million tons, this solution significantly reduces costs and environmental impact. In addition to wave energy, it can also be used in floating offshore wind energy and aquaculture installations. and aquaculture.
The project is supported by Portuguese institutions and European funds, such as the recent financial support of 40 million euros from the EU Innovation Fund. This boost reinforces Portugal’s ambition to lead the transition to sustainable energy sources by taking advantage of its extensive Atlantic coastline.
Both the HiWave-5 demonstrator demonstrator and the future VianaWave are emerging as international benchmarks in wave energy. wave energybacked by technical research, European innovation and cross-border collaboration.
Source and photo: CorPower Ocean
