The first of the two tidal turbines to be deployed on the Paimpol-Bréhat experimental site off France has completed its sea trials and is ready for deployment at the site off Ploubazlanec, France, according to DCNS.
The turbine underwent a series of tests in the harbor of Brest to verify its mechanical and electrical performance. Positioned on a barge and equipped with a converter, the turbine was towed for several days to simulate the force of tidal currents and carry out tests under conditions similar to those at the site.
The turbine is expected to be deployed by the end of 2015, depending on weather conditions and tidal coefficient.
In parallel, the second turbine of the project, expected to be deployed in 2016, is currently being assembled at DCNS’ shipyard in Brest.
The turbines, which are based on the latest technology developed by DCNS’ daughter company OpenHydro, will have a unit power output of 2 MW and will be connected to the power grid in 2018.
The pilot Paimpol-Bréhat tidal farm, developed by EDF Energies Nouvelles, is located approximately 16km out at sea and 35m deep off Ile-de- Bréhat near Paimpol.
First initiated in 2004, the work began in 2008 and the first turbine was installed in August 2011. The turbine named L’Arcouest developed by OpenHydro was tested at the site from December 2013 to April 2014.
Offshore Wind Staff; Image: DCNS