Numerical and physical modelling assessment of wave energy converters in the North Breakwater of the Port of Leixões

Abstract

Wave energy, which presents a large and globally-diverse resource, appears as a promising alternative for the transition of seaports towards carbon neutrality. For the specific case of seaports, the integration of Wave Energy Converters (WECs) into coastal defence structures appears as the most appealing option due to capital cost sharing, easy accessibility for grid connection and less challenging operation and maintenance tasks. On these grounds, this paper studies the energy production of HWEC, a novel converter, which combines the two well-known oscillating water column and overtopping conversion principles, using as case study the North breakwater of Port of Leixões (Portugal). Overall, the results obtained highlight the ability of HWEC to harvest wave energy. Fora HWEC module of 20 m wide, the annual energy production is approximately 796 MWh/year, which represents up to 5% of the annual electricity demands of the port. Furthermore, due to the modular and scalable nature of HWEC, a device with a total width of 240 m could fulfil almost 60% of the annual electricity consumption of the port, demonstrating the potential of the HWEC technology. (c) 2022 IAHR.