The performance of the three-float M4 wave energy converter off Albany, on the south coast of western Australia, compared to Orkney (EMEC) in the U.K.

Having sized the machine based on mean wave period, extreme wave height statistical analysis is performed using storm-based identification and a peaks-over-threshold technique, following Santo et al. (2016b), providing information relevant for any wave energy converter at the location. From operability and power scheme economics, we then compare the optimal size of machine, practical power output and the associated variability in power produced by an M4 machine at Albany to the open North Atlantic location off the Orkneys. This is performed with the methodology outlined in Santo et al. (2016a). For survivability, it is important to identify extremes of machine motion. Hence, extreme responses are also compared for the central hinge angle of the machine in survival mode with the power take-off turned off. We find that a much larger machine is required at Albany, because of the longer waves compared to Orkney. However, at the two very different locations the power/cost ratios are similar.