Seabed survey marks next step in wave-energy project

Wave-energy technology company Ocean Power Technologies Australasia (OPTA) and its subsidiary, Victorian Wave Partners (VWP), have engaged Victorian company Professional Diving Services (PDS) to conduct a detailed seabed survey for the location of VWP’s proposed wave power station off the coast of Portland, Victoria. The station is proposed to be the largest of its kind in the world.

The survey is in recognition of the significance of the ocean environment to the Portland region. It will identify the best area off the coast for the wave power project, taking into account environmental, recreational and commercial interests.

PDS Principal Frank Zeigler said he was “honoured” to be selected for the work. He said the company’s combination of local knowledge and professional skills will “ensure a positive outcome for the project and the community.”

The proposed wave power station uses innovative PowerBuoy technology developed by Ocean Power Technologies’ founder and VWP Chairman Dr George W Taylor. The PowerBuoy system is based on modular, ocean-going buoys that capture and convert predictable wave energy into clean electricity.

The power station is expected to be built in three phases, costing over $230 million. VWP has already received a $66.5 million grant for the project from the Department of Resources Energy and Tourism under its Renewable Energy Demonstration Program, which is now administered by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA). According to Dr Taylor, the grant is “the most significant support for wave power provided anywhere in the world.”

As the project progresses, it is expected to provide over 300 sustainable jobs. With a total capacity of 19 MW, it should provide power for up to 10,000 homes. The project may also be scaled up to 100 MW, benefiting from permitting and infrastructure achieved in connection with the initial 19 MW project.