Wave-Powered Buoy Reaches the Adriatic

US-based Ocean Power Technologies (OPT) has shipped its PB3 PowerBuoy to Italy for the upcoming deployment for oil and gas operations in the Adriatic Sea.

The shipment marks OPT’s first deployment into the oil & gas sector as the PB3 buoy will be used for Eni’s subsea operations.

The PowerBuoy will be used to demonstrate subsea battery charging and is intended for stand-alone charging and communications for long-term remote operation of AUVs.

OPT will also provide deployment support, remote data collection and monitoring to the Italian oil & gas giant as part of Eni’s Clean Sea initiative, according to OPT.

At the conclusion of the initial 18-month lease, and upon meeting technical metrics, Eni will have the option to either extend the lease for an additional 18 months or purchase the PB3 PowerBuoy, OPT noted.