Abstract
Mocean Energy, based in Edinburgh, is developing wave energy converters (WECs) for various applications from small scale off-grid use to large, utility-scale projects. Its core technology is its hinged raft WEC, which consists of two hulls with novel shapes connected by a single hinge. Wave forcing, and the hulls’ dynamics cause a rotation about the hinge, which is converted to electricity via a power take-off system.
Mocean Energy is undertaking a project funded by Wave Energy Scotland (WES) through its Novel WEC Programme to build and test at sea a 1/2-scale prototype of its M100 (i.e. 100 kW) WEC. The 1/2-scale prototype, which is to be tested is referred to as the M100P.
Testing is planned to be undertaken in an area to the East and offshore of Deerness, Orkney in 2022. The primary purpose of testing is to gather performance data and learnings from deployment of the device in order to inform further development of Mocean’s Wave Energy Converter designs.
This Project Environmental Management Plan (PEMP) has been produced to support a Marine Licence application under Part 4, Section 54 of the Marine (Scotland) Act 2010 for this deployment.
Table 4 presents the results from the environmental assessment of the Project; a process which draws together, in a systematic way, an assessment of a project’s likely significant environmental effects. This helps to ensure that the importance of the predicted effects, and the scope for reducing any adverse effects through mitigation, are fully understood by the public and the competent authority.
The PEMP details the proposed mitigation, monitoring and management measures for all stages of the project including installation/construction, operation and maintenance (O&M) and decommissioning of the device.
Mocean Energy are committed to updating and improving this PEMP through consultation and as more data, information and experience is gathered. In addition, they are committed to working closely with stakeholders and other developers to ensure that all mitigation and monitoring activities are conducted in line with best practice and best available knowledge at all times. Mocean Energy will also strive to actively engage with other developers and stakeholders to address the key issues and uncertainties associated with wave energy development through targeted research initiatives.