Number of Devices in the Array -The quantity of marine energy devices that will be installed within the system, taking into account the number of rows and devices per row in the array.Rated Array Capacity -The maximum power output, in kilowatts, that can be generated by the marine energy system, taking into account the individual device ratings and the overall array configuration.These outputs offer valuable information about the size and potential power output of the marine energy array. They provide understanding of the capacity and capabilities of the system, aiding in system design, performance assessment, and energy generation predictions.
Electrical Cable SpecificationsUsing the user inputs for electrical specifications, the model estimates the cable voltage, current, cable gauge, and overall cost of the electrical cables. These outputs provide valuable insights for necessary cable characteristics, system design, and the associated expenses for the electrical infrastructure.Cable Length -The estimated lengths of each cable (riser, array, terminal, and export) in meters.Cable Rated Apparent Power -The power-carrying capacity of the electrical cables, in megavolt-amperes (MVA).Export Cable Type -Determines whether the system is, or should be, designed for AC or HVDC. The user may define a current type, or the model recommends AC or HVDC based on user inputs and the table in Appendix A (Gaillard 2015).
Number of Conductors -The estimated number of conductors for each cable system, depending on current type (AC single-phase, AC three-phase, or DC).Cable Voltage -The estimated voltage rating of each cable type (Appendix B) in kilovolts.
5This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory at www.nrel.gov/publications.Cable Current -The estimated maximum current flow through each cable in amperes.Cable Gauge -The diameter, or cross-sectional area, of each electrical conductor, within each electrical cable. This parameter is expressed in American wire gauge (AWG) or 1,000 circular mils (KCMIL).Cost per Cable -The estimated cost per cable for each cable system in dollars.
Substation SpecificationsThe user inputs for the substation specifications help in determining the appropriate substation equipment and infrastructure required for the marine energy system. These outputs assist users in understanding the design considerations, capacity requirements, and associated expenses related to substation infrastructure for the marine energy system. Substation Type -Determines whether the substations should be designed for AC or HVDC based on the export cable type determined.Offshore Substation Rating -The estimated rated voltage, in kilovolts, of the offshore substation, which facilitates in stepping up the array voltage and transmits power to the onshore substation for distribution with reduced losses.Onshore Substation Rating -The estimated rated voltage, in kilovolts, of the onshore substation, which steps down the voltage to the grid-side voltage and acts as the connection point between the...