Spread over 3 days fifteen enthusiastic participants were taught everything about this emerging sector. From the nitty-gritty details of the various technologies to the softer issues such as legislation, environmental impacts and financing. The variety of topics was highly valued by the course participants. Or, as one participant stated, “I’ve learned more in these three days than the past six months of self-study”.
The course was given at three different locations: Netherlands Water Partnership, Bluewater Energy Services and Tocardo. Some fifteen guest lecturers taught the group about salinity gradient power; tidal barrage systems; tidal stream energy; OTEC and wave energy. Also, experienced engineers shared their practical knowhow on foundations, mooring systems, installation and novel energy storage concepts. With this, the course offers a comprehensive overview on the current state of marine energy. A site visit to a unique array of tidal turbines in the Afsluitdijk (enclosing dike in the Netherlands) showed theory put into practice and was a great inspiration.
The mix of participants included both junior and senior contractors, engineers, consultants and researchers from the Netherlands and abroad. They rated the course with an 8.3. Some reactions: “Very useful and well-presented” (Carlette Nieland, TTC). “I had a great experience and am very grateful I could join the course.” (Tyler Burger, PMI Industries USA). “Very good to obtain a good level of knowledge of the various techniques” (Chris Koehler, PwC BV).
The next course is planned in the first week of October, 2016. Registration is open for dutch and international participants at www.paotm.nl.
