An increasing number of marine renewable energy (MRE) systems are reaching the stage where a working prototype must be demonstrated in operation in order to progress to the next stage of commercial projects. This stage is often referred to as 'valley of death' where device developers face the challenge to raise capital needed to demonstrate the prototype. The dilemma is that investors understandably demand a proven track record and demonstrated reliability in order to provide capital. One way to resolve this dilemma is specific component reliability testing that not only satisfies investor expectations but holds the potential to improve and de-risk components for MRE. This paper gives an overview to different component reliability test approaches in established industries and for marine renewable energy, covering both wave and tidal energy technologies. There has been notable activity in the research community to develop and implement dedicated component reliability test rigs that allow the investigation and demonstration of component reliability under controlled, yet representative conditions. Two case studies of physical test rigs will illustrate the possible test approaches. The Nautilus Powertrain test rig, a facility at the Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult, The paper highlights the relevance of component testing and qualification prior to large-scale commercial deployments and gives an insight to some of the test capabilities available in the sector. Several case studies illustrate the component test approach for tidal energy (Nautilus) and wave energy (DMaC) applications.

No abstract

No abstract