PB3 PowerBuoy

The PowerBuoy consists of a float, spar, and heave plate. The float moves up and down the spar in response to the motion of the waves. The heave plate maintains the spar in a relatively stationary position. The relative motion of the float with respect to the spar drives a mechanical system contained in the spar that converts the linear motion of the float into rotary motion which drives electrical generators. The spar contains space for additional battery capacity if required to ensure power is provided to a given application even under extended no wave conditions.

Technology Developer

Ocean Power Technologies

Additional Information

Device Website

Device Status Is the device actively being developed or is available for purchase (active)? Or has development or support ended (inactive)?

Active

Technology Type

Point Absorber

Power Take-Off Mechanism that converts the motion of the prime mover into a useful form of energy such as electricity, learn more

Direct Drive Generator

Max Rated Power Capacity The maximum amount of electricity that can be produced by the device, as rated by the manufacturer.

15 KW

Surface Expression

True

Estimated TRL Estimated Technology Readiness Level scale from 1 to 9 with 9 being the most mature technology

TRL Last updated: 20 September 2023

9

Energy Resource

Wave

Water Column Position

Last Modified

2 July 2025

Projects Using PB3 PowerBuoy

Test Sites where PB3 PowerBuoy was tested

Citation Formats

“PB3 PowerBuoy.” Marine Energy Projects Database: Devices, PRIMRE, United States Department of Energy, https:https://openei.org/wiki/PRIMRE/Databases/Projects_Database/Devices/PB3_PowerBuoy. Accessed <day> <monthRoman> <year>.

Marine Energy Projects Database: Devices. <year>. "PB3 PowerBuoy." Accessed <monthRoman> <day>, <year>. https:https://openei.org/wiki/PRIMRE/Databases/Projects_Database/Devices/PB3_PowerBuoy.

PRIMRE/Databases/Projects Database/Devices/PB3 PowerBuoy

PB3 PowerBuoy

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