Building on the successful testing programs of 500 kW and 1 MW turbines, Alstom offers cost-effective and easy-to-maintain tidal technology: the Oceade 18 – 1.4 MW. The Oceade platform concept maximizes the use of tidal stream resources according to local conditions. (Photo credit: Alstom)
DNV GL is supporting energy solutions and transport company Alstom through the process of achieving Prototype Certification of its tidal turbine Oceade 18 – 1.4 MW. Alstom has been selected to supply four Oceade 18 – 1.4 MW tidal turbines to one of the world’s first tidal stream arrays in the Raz Blanchard, France. DNV GL has issued a Statement of Feasibility, an early milestone in the longer certification process.
The turbine design is an evolution of the 500 kW and 1 MW models tested at the European Marine Energy Centre, Scotland. Both the 500 kW and 1 MW models completed DNV GL’s design assessment. DNV GL is using the industry recognized DNV-OSS-312 to certify the Oceade 18 – 1.4 MW tidal turbine, with the first stage involving a full risk assessment of the turbine and actions to mitigate the risk of failure.
DNV GL will now work with Alstom to review and approve design documents before heading towards the fabrication stage, including manufacturing quality and equipment testing and surveillance of the installation and commissioning. Final Prototype Certification of the turbine will follow the successful close out of the actions agreed during the Statement of Feasibility stage.
“The Statement of Feasibility is the first milestone in delivering a high-performing safe and reliable tidal turbine for our customers. We look forward to continuing our journey with DNV GL to gain full Certification for the Oceade 18 – 1.4 MW,” said Rob Stevenson, Vice-President of Ocean Energy at Alstom.
“DNV GL has worked with Alstom for many years and is now certifying the Oceade 18 – 1.4 MW tidal turbine. Issuing the DNV GL Statement of Feasibility is an important step demonstrating that Alstom is taking a responsible approach to managing risk and putting in place the foundation for a successful project. We are pleased to be working with and supporting Alstom in their commitment to tackling the technical challenges of the tidal industry,” added Claudio Bittencourt, Business Development Director at DNV GL.
DNV GL has taken part in the risk-based certification processes for the marine and other renewable energies for over 30 years. The organization has been assessing new technologies, publishing standards and guidelines to ensure components, technologies and projects are reliable, safe and commercially profitable. Its risk-based focus is invaluable for offshore wind, as well as wave and tidal projects, which use relatively new technical and engineering knowledge and capabilities. New technologies require reliable operation and effective risk management at all times.
DNV GL
www.dnvgl.com/
Alstom
www.alstom.com/
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