Development of a floating tidal energy system suitable for use in shallow water

Abstract

A proposal is made for the use of a traditional stream
waterwheel suspended between two floating catamaran
NPL series demi-hulls as means of generating electrical
power. Two prototype devices, of lengths 1.6m and 4.5m,
have been developed, constructed and tested. It was found
that the concept is sound although greater investment is
required with regards to the materials and both
hydrodynamic and aerodynamic design of the waterwheel
to ensure an economically viable system. The work
presented concentrates on practical aspects associated with
design, construction and trial testing in Southampton water
of the 4.5m prototype. The relatively low cost, ease of
deployment, and the fact that conventional boat mooring
systems are effective, combine to make this an attractive
alternative energy solution for remote communities.

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Identifiers

ORCID for S.R. Turnock: orcid.org/0000-0001-6288-0400

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