The First P2 Pelamis machine, built for utility E.ON, has now been successfully removed from the EMEC site after four days of testing. This completes the first phase of a planned work-up programme, with the first deployment testing all aspects of the operational cycle. The machine removal was conducted using only the Voe Viking multicat, proving the single vessel removal procedure which will dramatically reduce operational costs for this and future commercial machines.
During the four days on site, the machine was exposed to only small seas with maximum wave heights of around 2.5 – 3 metres, within our current self-imposed ‘Weather State 2’ limits for initial reliability and systems proving. With four solid days of operating data secured, and conditions forecast to deteriorate well outside these limits from Friday, the decision was taken to remove the machine from site. The steady work-up programme planned for this new machine design will culminate in unrestricted operation across all conditions.
While the machine was onsite over 1000 data channels were monitored continuously from the control room in Stromness. All systems performed as designed with no problems arising. The machine completed several periods of sustained generation to the UK grid. Other highlights included testing of active and ‘failsafe’ control modes and automation routines for smooth continuous power output.
The machine has now returned to Lyness where it will be subjected to a rigorous inspection process to confirm that there are no problems that were not visible on the machine remote monitoring systems. After this it will be readied for redeployment in the next suitable weather window.