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Technology Comparison
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OPT PowerBuoy® |
Fossil Fuel |
Onshore Wind |
Offshore Wind |
Solar |
| Energy Density |
High.
Approx. 1000 x denser than wind |
Very High |
Low |
Moderate |
Low |
| Predictability |
High.
Accurate forecasts days in advance |
Dispatchable |
Low except in some sites |
Moderate |
Unpredictable except in some sites |
| Load Factor |
30% - 45% |
50% - 90% |
25% - 35% |
25% - 35% |
10% - 20% |
| Visual Impact |
Minimal. PowerBuoys, in general, not visible from shore |
Very High |
Moderate |
Low |
Unobtrusive |
| Potential Sites |
Extensive on Coastline |
Extensive but permitting process can be lengthy |
Limited |
Limited in US, Moderate in Europe |
Limited for High Energy Density, Extensive for low to Moderate Density |
| Cost* Per Kilowatt Hour – Remote Power |
7 - 10¢ |
N/A |
9 - 10¢ |
16¢ |
25 - 50¢ |
| Cost* Per Kilowatt Hour – Utility Power |
5¢** |
4¢ |
4 -5¢ |
7 - 9¢ |
10 - 25¢ |
* These costs assume high production volume. Subsidies, credits, grants will further reduce costs.
** Based on projected cost of 500 kW PowerBuoy, in commercial production volume.
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