UK's Wave Hub Proceeds with $43 M Investment

[jpak]

http://www.renewableenergyaccess.com/rea/news/story?id=48315

The first large-scale wave farm, set to be built 10 miles off the coast of Cornwall in South West England, is now one step closer to becoming a reality with approval of GBP 21.5 million in funding. The investment means Wave Hub could be operational as early as summer 2008, subject to final UK Government and EU approval.

Being developed by the South West of England Regional Development Agency (RDA), the wave farm will feature a high voltage cable on the seabed and be connected to the National Grid via an electricity substation on the mainland.

Groups of wave energy devices will be attached to Wave Hub, and float on or just below the surface, allowing wave energy developers to test new technology, assess how well their devices work and how much power they will generate before going into full commercial production.

"This is public sector investment at its best -- taking the long view, taking risks the private sector can't take, and making significant investment in the technology we need to tackle climate change. Wave Hub will help make the UK the location of choice for companies developing wave energy, and should see British and overseas businesses making long term investments in Cornwall," said Matthew Spencer, chief executive of Regen SW, the renewable energy agency for South West England.

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