The First Full Operative U-OWC Plants in the Port of Civitavecchia

Abstract

The Resonant Wave Energy Converter 3 (REWEC3) is a wave energy converter belonging to the family of Oscillating Water Columns (OWCs). It comprises an oscillating water column and an air pocket connected to a turbine, as for traditional OWCs. In addition, it has a small vertical U-shaped duct used for connecting the water column to the open wave field. Because of this particular geometrical configuration, it is also known as U-Oscillating Water Column (U-OWC). During the past decade, small scale field experiments and theoretical analyses proved its potential for full scale applications. Currently, a full-scale prototype has been operating in the Port of Civitavecchia (Rome, Italy), where a REWEC3 was constructed within the context of a major port enlargement. This paper shows some results of the monitoring activity on a single chamber equipped with pressure gauges. The results show some initial energetic performances of the REWEC3 in wind-generated seas.