Wave power project to conduct seabed survey

Ocean Power Technologies and Victorian Wave Partners have engaged Professional Diving Services (PDS) to conduct a detailed seabed survey for the proposed 62.5 MW wave power station off the coast of Portland in Victoria, which will be the largest of its kind in the world.

PDS was awarded the seabed survey contract after undertaking an extensive qualification process, marking a major step in the project’s development. The survey aims to identify the most suitable area off the coast for the wave power project, taking into account environmental, recreational and commercial interests.

The project is expected to create more than 300 jobs in fabrication, engineering, marine services and maintenance operations over the life of the project. When complete, the project will provide power for an estimated 10,000 homes.

The proposed wave power station will use PowerBuoy technology, which was developed by Australian electrical engineer Dr George W Taylor, Chairman of the Victorian Wave Project.