GWave has been developing its Power Generation Vessel technology for the past decade and is now preparing to ship the first full-scale prototype across the Atlantic ahead of installation.
“Today’s announcement lifts the lid on a well-kept secret,” said Wave Hub managing director Claire Gibson. “GWave’s wave device is exceptional and we are excited by the prospect of it being demonstrated at Wave Hub in Cornwall. We look forward to working with them to achieve what will be a major milestone for the industry.”
GWave chief executive Robert Stoddard said: “Our project launch at Cornwall’s Wave Hub facility will be a critical step in GWave’s program to bring to market cheap, clean electricity from the ocean.”
Along with its partners, the Maine-based firm is currently testing the mooring system at Coastal, Ocean and Sediment Transport (COAST) laboratory at Plymouth University.
Commenting on the announcement, Regen director Johnny Gowdy said: “Two things really stand out about the GWave project. Firstly, it has been financed entirely by the private sector and is supported by a very strategically focused investor.
“Secondly, with a massive 9MW capacity, the GWave generator is bigger than the largest offshore wind turbine. It could therefore open the possibility of large scale wave energy at a price that could compete with the cheapest low carbon technologies.”