Methodology for Assessing Ports as Testbeds for Emerging Sustainable Wave Energy Technologies: Application to Sines Port with the REEFS WEC

The development of wave energy converters (WECs) requires experimental tests at increasing scales. During the process, wave tanks eventually become inadequate due to size limitations. This study proposes a structured methodology to assess the feasibility of using seaports as testbeds for emerging WEC models, supporting innovation to accelerate sustainable energy transition. The method includes evaluating model requirements, ocean wave conditions at the port entrance, local wind-generated waves, tides, bathymetry, seabed composition, wave propagation within the port, and operational constraints, to identify viable test zones. The methodology was applied to the Port of Sines, Portugal, considering a 1:10 REEFS WEC model. Three potential sites were identified. Shelter is adequate but wave conditions matching the model’s requirements only occur approximately 100 hours per summer, due to the rarity of short-period ocean waves. Wind-generated waves contribute marginally, limited by the short fetch. Upscaling the model may allow testing under longer-period waves, which occur more frequently. A key limitation of port-based testing is the lack of environmental control. Despite statistical planning, suitable conditions during test campaigns cannot be guaranteed. This trade-off offsets the benefits of unrestricted space and no need for a wave-maker. The methodology proved effective, simplifying site assessment and saving resources.