Design and analysis of vertical-axis hydrokinetic turbines

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In collaboration with New Energy Corporation Inc., the goals of this Alliance grant are to develop solution strategies to optimize the performance of vertical-axis hydrokinetic turbines operating under challenging ocean environment. This includes the development of the numerical framework supported by the experimental tests in a water tank to investigate the effects of cavitation, free-surface, inflow turbulence, complex seafloor topography, and wake-structure interaction on turbine performance. The work is motivated by increasing marine renewable energy sector in Canada and worldwide. An advancement of the hydrokinetic technologies in Canada will not only strengthen the competitiveness of the country on the international marine renewable market but also will provide clean, cost competitive, low-carbon technologies that can also displace diesel generation in the rural, remote and Indigenous communities. Results will be exploited to optimize the New Energy's systems when operating in ocean environment. Critical technology expertise gained during the project will also allow New Energy to become a critical part of international project initiatives and support the advancement of the sector. In addition, the major contribution from the project will also include the training of highly qualified personnel (HQP) who will acquire unique skills that are critical for the growth of the industry and further development of technology.