Resource measurement and analysis are crucial to project development. A robust estimate of the energy production of a prospective wave and tidal project, is required to support investment and financing decisions.
The steps involved in a wave and tidal assessment are, as follows:
- Optional site visit, to review site characteristics
- Resource data filtering and quality control, to detect any erroneous or suspect observations
- Resource data analysis and processing
- Resource modelling
- Energy calculation
- Calculation of likely loss factors
- Uncertainty analysis to enable financial decision makers to take well informed decisions
- Detailed reporting
Outcomes from the wave and tidal energy assessment deliver information on the wave and tidal regime at a site. This is crucial for the optimal design of the site and in assessing the suitability of different devices for use at the site. The accuracy of the analysis is dependent on the extent, quality and duration of the resource data recorded at the site. Here, GL Garrad Hassan can give clear guidance to developers on the requirements a site’s resource monitoring programme has to fulfill.
