Location

Location matrices are particular to each individual case, however, a template is established with populates given the data input by the user.  This data is a variety of manually entered data, and that which must be selected from a specified list.  The purpose of this is to use the database entries to produce a numerical ranking for the location, relevant to each criteria, between 1-5, with 5 being to best possible score.  The criteria were determined using the engineering judgement of the group and each have an independent importance factor, also, between 1-5, with 5 being to best possible score.  Depending on the generation method being examined at the location of interest, certain criteria would be removed as they have no bearing on the result, eg: tidal stream would not require the wave height criteria.

This essentially reduces the decision regarding which location is most beneficial to the eight defined criteria, and the individual scores of locations assessed against these criteria.  ​Grid infrastructure and community independence have substantially influenced the weighting of our selection process, with output, maintenance and reliability being the most important factors for selection.

Criteria	Weighting
Assessed Resource	4
Proximity to Load	3
Wave Height	4
Average Water Depth	3
Peak Flow Rate	4
Tidal Range	4
Seabed Topography	4
Accessibility	2

Devices​

As with the location matrix, each criteria was scored from 1-5. For device criteria, an emphasis was placed on reliability, ease of maintenance and device lifetime, as well as device limiting factors such as required water depth and method of mooring.

Criteria	Weighting
Rated Capacity	3
Required Flow Velocity	3
Operating Water Depth	5
Installation Complexity	1
Lifespan	4
Primary Seabed Attachment	4
Planned Inspection/Maintenance	2
Maintenance Complexity	3
Maintenance Complexity	3
Access Complexity	2
Technology Readiness Level	5

​A full breakdown of the grading levels for each criteria can be found in the Downloads page of this website.