site user(s):
CGEN Engineering, Swansea University and Rudders Boatyard.
technology tested:
Adaptable modular generators using an tidal turbine to capture energy from the flow of water.
sites used:
Warrior Way – site provides a 1.5 m/s tidal stream resource during peak spring flow.
duration of deployment:
September and October 2025 – 2 months.
test aims:
Build and deploy a fully marinised lightweight modular generator that meets the specific needs of low rotation speed, high-torque tidal energy turbines. Demonstrate and validate the system in a relevant environment using a 2 bladed 3m diameter floating tidal turbine.
test outcome:
The test programme demonstrated reliable and efficient conversion of mechanical energy to electrical energy, elevating CGEN Engineering’s TRL from 5 to 7 for tidal energy. The project also demonstrated the generator’s manufacturability and transportability, showing that it is a cost-effective solution for seamless plug-and-play onsite assembly with an existing tidal turbine. Finally, the testing allowed CGEN to build further knowledge of marine operations and system design requirements for real-world operating conditions.