CX-100574 Categorical Exclusion Determination

Numerical Modeling and Experimental Validation of Extreme Conditions Response for the Centipod WEC
Award Number: DE-EE0007344
CX(s) Applied: A9, B3.6
Water Power Technologies Office
Date: 03/18/2016
Location(s): CA
Office(s): Golden Field Office

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is proposing to provide federal funding to Dehlsen Associates, LLC. (DA) to advance the design of their “Centipod” Wave Energy Converter (WEC) for survivability while improving the understanding of mid- and high-fidelity tools as they pertain to Extreme Condition Modeling (ECM). This work would result in a more appropriate structural design of “Centipod” and a greater understanding of the accuracy and reliability of mid- and high-fidelity design for estimating extreme loads. 

Activities associated with the proposed project would include numerical and computer modeling, and design, fabrication and testing of models. Numerical modeling and design of the Centipod WEC device would occur at DA offices in Santa Barbara, CA. Additional computer modeling and design work would be completed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in Golden, CO, Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) in Albuquerque, NM, and DNV-GL in San Diego, CA. Laboratory model fabrication and wave tank testing would be carried out by the Naval Surface Warfare Center-Carderock in Bethesda, MD. The facilities in which lab work would occur have been purpose-built for the type of activities being proposed; therefore, no adverse impacts to sensitive resources are expected as a result of the proposed project. No change in the use, mission or operation of existing facilities would arise out of this effort. The facilities have all applicable permits in place, and would not need additional permits for the proposed activities.