Ecologia, Medio Ambiente y Energias Renovables en la Naturaleza
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Lunes, 21 de Mayo de 2012
The government of Victoria, Australia provided 5 million Australian dollars to ocean energy company BioPower Systems as additional funding for the pilot demonstration of its $14-million, 250-kilowatt "Biowave" wave energy system at a grid-connected site near Port Fairy.
The Biowave system is different from other wave energy systems. It is expected to capture a much higher proportion of energy than other designs due to its patented multi-blade structure.
The Biowave consists of a structure that sways back and forth beneath the waves, and converts the resulting oscillating forces to electricity by pressurizing hydraulic fluid, which is used to spin a generator. The technology is designed to operate in depths of 30 to 50 meters.
"We believe Biowave will, when fully commercially developed, produce electricity at a price highly competitive with wind and be closer to baseload characteristics than either wind or solar," said BioPower Systems chief executive Timothy Finnigan.
"It is gratifying that the potential of the technology has been recognized by the Victorian government."
Aside from the government, 12 organizations have committed to contribute cash and in-kind support for the four-year demonstration, including suppliers, manufacturers, consultants and three Australian universities. – Jhoanna Frances S. ValdezÇ
