Steve Mills

Inverters convert the direct current (DC) generated by solar PV modules into alternating current (AC), which can be fed into the electric grid or used by a local, off-grid network. Conventional string and central solar inverters are connected to multiple modules to create an array which effectively is a single…

Also called concentrating solar power or solar thermal electricity, STE. Technology which uses mirrors to focus sunlight into an intense solar beam that heats a working fluid in a solar receiver, which then drives a turbine or heat engine/generator to produce electricity. The mirrors can be arranged in a variety of…

Technologies which use mirrors to focus sunlight on a receiver . These are usually smaller-sized modules used for the production of heat and steam below 400 °C for industrial applications, laundries and commercial cooking.

Technology which uses mirrors or lenses to focus and concentrate sunlight onto a relatively small area of photovoltaic cells which generate electricity . Low-, medium- and high-concentration CPV systems (depending on the design of reflectors or lenses used) operate most efficiently in concentrated, direct sunlight.

A type of foundation with a cylindrical tube (normally steel) that is normally driven tens of metres into the sea bed, although it can also be inserted into pre-drilled holes. A collective term used to describe all steel foundations other than monopiles. Includes braced, welded, space-frame structures (collectively called ‘jackets’),…

A buoyant foundation structure anchored to the sea bed via mooring lines. The term includes several foundation types including spar buoys, tension leg platforms and semi-submersibles.

A method of controlling torque on a Wind Turbine Rotor by decreasing the area of the blade surface exposed to the wind

Electrical cable which connects the onshore and offshore substations, or between an AC offshore substation and a DC converter substation.

A vessel used to transport wind farm technicians and other personnel to the offshore wind farm turbines either from port or from a fixed or floating base. Vessels operating today are typically specially-designed catamarans that accommodate around 12 passengers.

Cable protection systems protect subsea cables against various external aggressions. Systems include bend restrictors and bend stiffeners where the cable may be subject to increased loading.