Wave power scheme planned for Cornwall

The UK's first commercial wave power scheme is to be built off the coast of Cornwall.

Located 16km off the Cornish coast at Hayle, the £28m development could eventually become the largest wave energy farm in the world. With a capacity of up to 20MW, it will enable pre-commercial testing of wave energy devices on a large scale.

The scheme will involve up to 30 wave-energy machines placed on the seabed, sending power via a “socket” or wave hub.

The project is being part financed by the government, the EU and the South West Regional Development Agency.

Engineering firm JP Kenny has been appointed to manage the onshore works and selection of subcontractors, as well as the design, procurement and installation of the wave hub.

Concept designs for the wave hub will be explored over the next few months, with detailed designs to be completed by May 2009.