ZOEX for Aquaculture (RD192)

Aim:

Sealand Projects will demonstrate a cost-effective Wave Energy Converter system which can be deployed at offshore salmon farms and significantly reduce diesel consumption.

Funding Amount:

£246,000

Duration of Project:

10 months

Project Outcome:

The aims and objectives of this project were to kickstart a step change in sustainability of the UK’s aquaculture industry by developing a reliable, cost-effective, clean energy solution to meet their energy needs. 

ZOEX is a wave energy converter (WEC) that can directly be mounted on aquaculture feed-barges to provide power to the facility. It is a simple hinge and float assembly designed to be attached to a marine platform. Power is captured by a linear ‘ball screw’ type electrical generator. The ZOEX design incorporates an innovative gearing mechanism to enhance power production in small waves whilst mitigating end-stop problems in large waves.  

For the initial prototype testing the ZOEX, WEC and integrated monitoring systems were successfully installed, operated and recovered during a two-week trial in Crathes Quay, South Harbour, Aberdeen Port in June and July 2024.  Using artificially generated waves from a vessel, the WEC has demonstrated with a reasonable degree of confidence the ability to capture hydrodynamic power into mechanical power and then into electrical power.  The ZOEX system also demonstrated a highly efficient method of transport, deployment and recovery with a high degree of adaptability possible for future mounting options (e.g. a floating platform).

STATUS: Completed

Project Lead

Sealand Projects