Labbuoy project

A life cycle analysis (LCA) has been carried out to assess the environmental impact of a wave energy converter.

The Labbuoy project has focused on mathematical and physical model testing of a novel wave power converter. This is a floating wave converter which has power transmission and power conversion systems mounted on a breakwater or a pier. Its construction results in more power production, because of wave reflection on the breakwater frontage, as well as in greater reliability and operational safety.

One of the project's main objectives concerned the assessment of feasibility, socioeconomic aspects and environmental impacts of the technology for representative sea states in Europe . Before obtaining public approval in the EU, an environmental impact assessment (EIA) must be conducted to examine poten­tial impacts on the environment, focusing on human beings, fauna and flora, soil, water, air, climate, landscape and material assets as well as cultural heritage.

Given that wave energy technologies are still in their early phase, only a few large-scale prototypes are operating worldwide to date. Thus, experience with the environmental effects of wave energy converters is very limited. Responding to this need, LCA is a method for quantitative analysis of the environmental effects related to a product during its life cycle. This technique emerged due to further environmental awareness of the general public, industry and governments. From such analysis, quantitative results have been obtained and the impact of the technology on specific areas of major environmental concern can be quantified. These technology component configurations may be reconsidered in future projects.

(Source ResearchEU)

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