Ocean Power Technologies has launched its newest product, the hybrid PowerBuoy.

The hybrid PowerBuoy utilizes solar panels and a clean-burning Stirling backup engine to power topside or subsea payloads. Power is generated independent of wave activity.

The hybrid PowerBuoy can be utilized across many industries and applications, including emergency and short-term power and communications support for maintenance, testing and repair services. It can be configured with OPT’s marine surveillance solution for security monitoring of offshore areas. Customized solutions are also available, including the addition of subsea sensors to monitor for acoustic signatures, tsunami, and other environmental conditions.

Data from the hybrid PowerBuoy is transmitted to shore based command stations via communications networks, including WiFi, cellular, mesh and/or satellite systems, depending upon location. Data can also be integrated with satellite, terrestrial, and other data feeds to form a detailed surface and subsea view.

“We believe that the hybrid PowerBuoy is a remarkable power and communications platform – an easily deployable, clean offshore energy source and excellent complement to OPT’s PB3 PowerBuoy solutions.”
George H. Kirby, president and chief executive officer of OPT.