The Penguin WEC was deployed at EMEC’s grid-connected wave test site at Billia Croo, off the west coast of Orkney, over the weekend. It marks a welcome return to Orkney for Wello, which first tested at the Billia Croo site in 2012. The installation was carried out by Orkney-based marine services provider Green Marine, overseen by its managing director, Jason Schofield.
Funded by the European Commission’s research and innovation programme Horizon 2020, CEFOW is a five-year project led by Fortum to develop and prove Wello’s Penguin in real-sea conditions.
“The successful installation of the Penguin at EMEC this weekend was due to careful planning and a close working relationship between Green Marine and Wello Oy” Jason Schofield said. “The fantastic operational planning by the Green Marine team, utilising the weather windows at this time of year, allowed for a seamless operation.”
Mikko Muoniovaara, senior project manager at Fortum, added that deployment of the Penguin in winter is an important milestone for the company, providing valuable learning for both Fortum and Wello. Cost efficiency of operations and maintenance plays an important role in any renewables and Green Marine's achievement shows that these operations can be done safely outside the summer season if needed.
Image: Wello's Penguin WEC
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