A renewable energy generation module

Abstract

A renewable energy generation module 1 for use in a body of water comprises a plurality of floatation devices 3 supported by and located outside of a structural frame 2 to maintain an upper portion of

Description

Technical Field of the Invention 5 The present invention relates to a renewable energy generation apparatus. More specifically, the present invention relates to a floating renewable energy generation apparatus for use in a body of water. The present invention also relates to a renewable energy generation system, 10 Background of the Invention Renewable energy is energy derived from natural sources that are replenished at a higher rate than they are consumed. However, many renewable energy generation platforms require large plots of land to be installed on, site preparation for installation, 15 and can have long and complex installations. These drawbacks are emphasised In remote locations, such as Islands, where the amount of available surface area is small and locations are difficult to move tools and equipment to for installation. In such locations, even if all the available area were 20 covered in renewable energy generation devices the energy generated may still not be enough to meet the local community's needs. Summary of the Invention 25 In one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a renewable energy generation module for use in a body of water. The renewable energy generation module comprises a structural frame, a plurality of floatation devices supported by and located outside of the structural frame, the plurality of floatation devices configured to maintain an upper portion of the module above the surface of the body 30 of water, a wave energy generation device located centrally within the structural frame, and a renewable energy generation device receiving platform located on the upper end of the structural frame, the platform being configured to receive a renewable energy generation device. 35 In some embodiments, the wave energy generation device may comprise an oscillating water column. In some embodiments, the oscillating water column may comprise a tubular column defirsing a water receiving chamber and a wind turbine connected to a generator. In some embodiments, the tubular column may comprise an open lower end configured to be located below the surface of the body of water and a dosed upper end configured to be located above the surface of the body of water. In some embodiments, the oscillating water column may comprise a natural frequency that substantially matches the material frequency of the waves and is configured to cause water within the water receiving chamber to oscillate between upper and lower levels that are located further from an equilibrium level than the peaks and troughs of the waves outside the oscillating water column, during use. In some embodiments, the oscillating water column may comprise an aperture located in a side wali of the tubular column proximate its upper end, the aperture configured to allow air to exit and enter the water receiving chamber in dependence on the oscillating water level. In some embodiments, the wind turbine may be located proximate the aperture, the wind turbine configured to be rotated by the flow of air out of and into the water receiving chamber of the oscillating water column. In some embodiments, the oscillating water column may further comprise a turbine shroud located adjacent to the aperture on the outside of the tubular column, the wind turbine being housed in the turbine shroud. In some embodiments, the turbine shroud may be configured to accelerate air flow towards the wind turbine in both directions. In some embodiments, the wind turbine may be a vertical axis turbine. In some embodiments, the shaft of the vertical axis turbine may extend perpendicularly to the air flow direction. In some embodiments, the shaft of the vertical axis turbine may extend perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the module. In some embodiments, the oscillating water column may have a hexagonal crosssection. In some embodiments, the water receiving chamber of the oscillating water column may have a length in the range of about 2 m to about 4 m. In some embodiments, the water receiving chamber of the oscillating water column may have a maximum width in the range of about 1 m to about 1.5 m. In some embodiments, the renewable energy generation module may further comprise a plurality of solar panels mounted on the renewable energy generation device receiving platform. In some embodiments, the renewable energy generation module may further comprise a plurality of wind turbines mounted on the renewable energy generation device receiving platform. In some embodiments, the module may be configured to float on a body of water during use. In some embodiments, the renewable energy generation device receiving platform may be configured to be located in the range of about 0.5 m to 1.5 m above the surface of the body of water during use. In some embodiments, the distance between the upper surface of the plurality of floatation devices and the renewable energy generation device receiving platform may be in the range of about 0.5 m to about 1.5 m. In another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a renewable energy generation system for use in a body of water. The renewable energy generation system comprises a plurality of renewable energy generation modules according to any one of claim 1 to claim 20, wherein each of the renewable energy generation modules is connected to the adjacent renewable energy generation modules, and a tidal energy generation device suspended between the plurality of renewable energy generation modules. In some embodiments, the tidal energy generation device may comprise a vertical axis rotor and an electricity generator. In some embodiments, the vertical axis rotor of the tidal energy generation device may be submerged in water during use, and the electricity generator Is located above the vertical axis rotor above the surface of the body of water. In some embodiments, the tidal energy generation device may be supported by crossbeams connecting opposing renewable energy generation modules, the vertical axis rotor being located between upper and lower beams configured to be submerged during use. In some embodiments, the crossbeams may comprise guide panels extending between the upper and lower beams configured to restrict the area through which water can flow and accelerate water towards a narrow opening where the vertical axis rotor is located. Brief Description of the Drawings So that the present invention may be more fully understood, embodiments of' the present invention wlii now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1 shows a schematic perspective view of a renewable energy generation module; Fig. 2 shows a schematic bottom view of a renewable energy generation module; Fig. 3 shows a schematic side view of a renewable energy generation module; Fig. 4 shows a schematic cross-sectional side view of a renewable energy generation module; Fig. 5 shows a schematic top view of a renewable energy generation system; Fig. 6 shows a schematic perspective view of a renewable energy generation system; Fig. 7 shows an enlarged schematic perspective view of a tidal energy generation device of the renewable energy generation system; and Fig. 8 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a renewable energy generation module. Detailed Description Referring to Fig. 1, a schematic perspective view of a renewable energy generation module 1 Is shown. The renewable energy generation module 1 is designed to limit renewable energy generation devices' dependence on land acquisition. In the present invention, the renewable energy generation module 1 is configured to be used on a body of water. That is, the renewable energy generation module 1 is configured to float on a body of water, as will be explained in more detail hereinafter. As a result of its ability to float on the surface of a body of water, the renewable energy generation module 1 of the present invention does not require any land acquisition. Therefore, the renewable energy generation module 1 is particularly useful in coasta! regions or around small islands that do not have an abundance of land that can be allocated to renewable energy generation. The present invention further differs from known renewable energy generation systems in that its impact on the environment is particularly low. The renewable energy generation module 1 is configured such that it does not protrude significantly from the surface of the body of water, as will be explained in more detail hereinafter. Therefore, the visual impact of the present invention on its surrounding environment is minimised. In addition, the present invention allows for the combination of more than one type of renewable energy generation device. For example, energy may be generated by the present invention from waves and / or tidal currents and / or sunlight (solar) and / or wind. By using a combination of these types of energy generation, a continuous energy supply can be provided to communities in coastal or island regions, especially remote regions. In one such embodiment, wave energy can be used to generate continual energy and solar energy can be used to generate extra power in the day time. This extra energy can be stored on shore, in for example batteries or an alternative storage solution, to be used during the night. The benefit of wave energy over solar energy and wind energy is clear in this context. That is, energy can be generated from waves which are constantly moving whereas energy can only be generated from wind when the wind is of sufficient speed to turn a rotor and sunlight can only be used to generate energy when it is sunny enough. However, the energy generated from wind of solar can be used to supplement the energy derived from the waves. Therefore, the present invention actually reduces the need for storage solutions, such as batteries, due to the energy diversification of the module and overall system. For example, solar power cars provide an energy boost during the day when energy consumption is higher and wave and tidal energy can meet the lower demands throughout the night. Finally, the present invention has the advantage that the components have been designed to be assembled into a renewable energy generation module in the remote coastal or island location that the module is to be used in. Thus, the components can be transported to the location of use unassembled, which makes transportation easier. Furthermore, assembly in the location of use allows remote communities to benefit from the use cost effective use of renewable energy that has not been previously available. Referring to Fig. 1, the renewable energy generation module 1 comprises a structural frame 2. The renewable energy generation module 1 comprises a plurality of floatation devices 3. The plurality of floatation devices 3 are configured to maintain an upper portion 4 of the module 1 above a surface of a body of water, during use. The renewable energy generation module 1 further comprises a wave energy generation device 5 and a renewable energy generation device receiving platform 6. The wave energy generation device 5 is located centrally within the structural frame 2. The renewable energy generation device receiving platform 6 is located on an upper end 7 of the structural frame 2, The renewable energy generation device receiving platform 6 is configured to receive a renewable energy generation device 8. The structural frame 2 of the renewable energy generation module 1 may comprise a plurality of first members 11 and a plurality of second members 12. The plurality of first members 11 may extend substantially longitudinally. That is, the plurality of first members 11 may extend parallel to the longitudinal axis A of the renewable energy generation module 1, as shown in Fig. 2. In some embodiments, the plurality of first members 1.1 may be in the range of about 2 m to about 4 m long. In some embodiments, the plurality of first members 11 may be about 3 m long. Referring briefly to Fig. 2, a schematic bottom view of the renewable energy generation module 1 is shown. As shown in Fig. 2, in some embodiments, the structural frame 2 may comprise six first members 11, The plurality of first members 11 may have a generally rectangular cross-section. In some embodiments, the plurality of first members 11 may be solid, i.e. non-hoflow. In some embodiments, the plurality of first members 11 may be generally flat in cross-section. In some embodiments, the plurality of first members 11 may be formed by T-shaped or’C'-shaped beams. In some embodiments, the plurality of first members 11 may be tubular. That is, the plurality of first members 11 may be hollow. The six first members 11 may be arranged such that they form the vertices of a hexagonal structural frame 2. The plurality of second members 12 may extend between adjacent first members 11. The plurality of second members 12 may extend substantially perpendicularly to the plurality of first members 11. That is, the plurality of second members 12 may extend perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis A of the renewable energy generation module 1. Referring briefly to Fig. 3, a schematic side view of the renewable energy generation module 1 is shown. As shown in Fig. 2, a plurality of second members 12 may extend between two adjacent first members 11. For example, seven second members 12 may extend between each set of adjacent first members 11. The plurality of second members 12 may have a generally rectangular cross-section. In some embodiments, the plurality of second members 12 may be solid, i.e. non-hollow. In some embodiments, the plurality of second members 12 may be generally flat in cross-section. In some embodiments, the plurality of second members 12 may be tubular. That is, the plurality of second members 12 may be hollow. In some embodiments, the plurality of second members 12 may be in the range of about 1 m to about 1.5 m long. In some embodiments, the plurality of second members 12 may be about 1.35 m long. It will be appreciated that each first member 11 may be connected to a plurality of second members 12 in any known manner. For example, the second members 12 may be attached to the first members 11 through the use of nuts and bolts. In alternative embodiments, the first and second members 11, 12 of the structural frame 2 may be welded together. Thus, as shown in Fig. 1 to Fig. 3, the combination of first and second members 11, 12 may form tubular hexagonal structural frame 2. The tubular hexagonal structural frame 2 may comprise gaps between each of the first and second members 11, 12 in a cage-like structure. Thus, a rigid structural frame 2 can be provided for the renewable energy generation module 1 whilst minimising the weight of the module 1. In some embodiments, the renewable energy generation module 1 may further comprise at least one intermediate member 13, as shown in Fig. 8. The at least one intermediate member 13 may be essentially the same as the plurality of first members 11, That is, the at least one intermediate member 13 may extend parallel to the longitudinal axis A of the renewable energy generation module 1. The at least one intermediate member 13 may be located between adjacent first members 11. In some embodiments, at least one intermediate member 13 may be located between each of the adjacent first members 11. That is, in a renewable energy generation module 1 comprising six first members 11, the renewable energy module 1 may comprise six intermediate members 13. The first and intermediate members 11, 13 may be arranged alternately with the first members .11 forming the vertices of the structural frame 2. Thus, the intermediate member 13 may be arranged in between the vertices of the structural frame 2. The at least one intermediate member 13 may be connected to at least one of the second members 12. The at least one intermediate member 13 may be located on outside of the plurality of second members 12, In some embodiments, the at least one intermediate member 13 may be a connecting member such that a plurality of second members 12 extends from each side of the intermediate member 13 towards adjacent first members 11, That is, one set of second members 12 may extend from one first member 11 to an intermediate member 13 and another set of second members 12 may extend from the opposite side of the intermediate member 13 to another, adjacent, first member 11. The structural frame 2 may further comprise a top panel 14, as is most clearly shown in Fig. 2. The top panel 14 may be located at the upper end 7 of the structural frame 2, as shown in Fig. 3. The top panel 14 may be configured to close the upper end 7 of the structural frame 2. In some embodiments, the top panel 14 may be formed from a plurality of sections that can be joined together to close the upper end 7 of the structural frame 2, as shown in Fig. 2. It will be appreciated that the structural frame 2 may define an internal volume 16 within the cage-iike structure. The internal volume 16 of the structural frame may be a hexagonal prism. The renewable energy generation module 1 further comprises a plurality of floatation devices 3. The plurality of floatation devices 3 are configured to maintain an upper portion 4 of the module 1 above the surface of a body of water, as shown in Fig. 4. That is, the buoyancy of the plurality of floatation devices 3 may be large enough to keep approximately the top half of the renewable energy generation module 1 above the surface of the body of water, during use. Thus, the renewable energy generation module 1 may be configured to float on a body of water during use. Each of the floatation device 3 may be located outside of the structural frame 2. The longitudinal axis of each floatation device 3 may extend parallel to the longitudinal axis A of the module 1. In some embodiments, the plurality of floatation devices 3 may be integrally formed with the structural frame 2. Each of the plurality of floatation devices 3 may comprise a first float section 2.1 and a second float section 22, as shown in Fig. 3. The first and second float sections 21, 22 may be joined together to form a single floatation device 3. The first and second float sections 21, 22 may have a generally semi-annulus cross-section. Thus, each floatation device 3 may have a generally annular cross-section in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the floatation devices 3. In some embodiments, the upper and lower ends of the first and second float sections 21, 22 may be tapered. Each floatation device 3 may therefore be a generally tubular cylinder defining an internally extending aperture 24, shown in Fig. 4. The aperture 24 may extend through the length of the flotation device 3. The aperture 24 may have a constant diameter. The aperture 24 may be configured to receive a component for connecting the floatation device 3 to the structural frame 2, as will be explained in more detail hereinafter. In some embodiments, each floatation device 3 may comprise a shell 25 and a core 26. The outer shell 25 may be formed from a material such as, but not limited to, high-density polyethylene. The core 26 may comprise an empty cavity filled with air. In other embodiments, the core 26 may comprise a cavity filled with a material such as, but not limited to, polyurethane foam. In some embodiments, each of the first and second float sections 21, 22 of each floatation device 3 may have a volume in the range of about 500 L to about 1000 L. In some embodiments, each of the first and second float sections 21, 22 of each floatation device 3 may have a volume in the range of about 700 L to about 750 L In some embodiments, each of the first and second float sections 21, 22 of each floatation device 3 may have a volume of about 715 L. As shown in Fig. 4, the structural frame 2 may further comprise a plurality of floatation device attachment arms 31. The floatation device attachment arms 31 may be configured to attach the floatation devices 3 to the structural frame 2 of the renewable energy generation module 1. Each of the plurality of floatation device attachment arms 31 may comprises an upper-arm 32, a lower arm 33, and a connecting rod 34. The connecting rod 34 may extend through the aperture 24 in the floatation device 3. The connecting rod 34 may comprise pins 35a, 35b, at its upper and lower ends. The pins 35a, 35b, may be configured to be received in and extend through holes 36a, 36b in the upper and lower arms 32, 33. In some embodiments, the pins 35a, 35b may be threaded. In such embodiments, threaded nuts 37a, 37b may be engaged with the threaded pins 35a, 35b to secure the connecting rod 34, and therefore floatation device 3, to the upper and lower arms 32, 33. The upper and lower arms 32, 33 may be connected to the hexagonal structural frame 2. More specifically, the upper and lower arms 32, 33 may be connected to the second members 12 of the structural frame 2. As shown in Fig. 4, the upper arm 32 may be connected to the second second member 12 and the lower arm 33 may be connected to the fifth second member 12. In other embodiments, the upper arm 32 may be connected to the third second member 12 and the lower arm 33 may be connected to the fifth second member 12. Referring briefly to Fig. 1, the upper arms 32 may comprise a first rib 32a and a second rib 32b. The first and second ribs 32a, 32b may extend from the second member 12 to form a generally triangular shape. The holes 36a and pins 35a may extend through both ribs 32a, 32b. Similarly, referring briefly to Fig. 2, the lower arms 33 may comprise a first rib 33a and a second rib 33b, which extend from the hexagonal structural frame 2 to form a generally triangular shape. However, it will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the upper and Sower arms 32, 33 may comprise a single arm extending generally outwards in a radial direction from the hexagonal structural frame 2, as shown in Fig. 5. It will be appreciated that in such embodiments more than one floatation device 3 may be attached to the upper and lower arms 32, 33. In the embodiments shown in Fig. 1 to 5, each of the plurality of floatation devices 3 may be arranged such that the longitudinal axis of the floatation device 3, or the longitudinal axis of the aperture 24 therein, extends parallel to the longitudinal axis A of the renewable energy generation module 1. However, in some embodiments, such as the embodiment shown in Fig. 8, the longitudinal axis of each of the plurality of floatation devices 3 may extend perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis A of the renewable energy generation module 1, In such an embodiment, a single attachment arm 31 may extend through the aperture 24 in the floatation device 3 from the structural frame 2. An inner end of the attachment arm 31 may be attached directly to a first member 11 of the structural frame 2. An outer end of the attachment arm 31 may comprise a T- bar section 39 that extends parallel to the longitudinal axis A of the renewable energy generation module 1. The T-bar section 39 may prevent the floatation device 3 from coming off the attachment arm 31. As illustrated in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, the renewable energy generation module 1 may comprise the same number of floatation devices 3 as the structural frame 2 has number of side walls. In the present embodiments, the structural frame 2 of the renewable energy generation module 1 may comprise six side walls. Therefore, the renewable energy generation module 1 may comprise one floatation device 3 attached to each side wail of the structural frame 2. However, it will be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the number of floatation devices 3 may be different to the number of side walls of the structural frame 2 of the renewable energy generation module. Furthermore, in a system where two or more renewable energy generation modules 1 are joined together, the number of floatation devices 3 may be different to the number of side walls of the structural frame 2 and each side wall of the structural frame 2 may be associated with more than one floatation device 2, as will be explained in more detail hereinafter. Referring back to Fig. 3 and Fig. 4, the renewable energy generation module 1 comprises a renewable energy generation device receiving platform 6. The platform 6 may comprise a plurality of base members 41. The plurality of base members 41 may extend across the upper end 7 of the structural frame 2. The plurality of base members 41 may extend parallel to one another and perpendicularly to the first members 11 of the structural frame 2. In some embodiments, the base members 41 may be attached to the first row of second members 12 located at the upper end 7 of the structural frame 2. The base members 41 may be attached to the first row of second members 12 by, for example, welding or nuts and bolts. The top panel 14 may be attached to the underside of the base members 41. The base members 41 may be configured to provide a base to the platform 6 for mounting thereon at least one renewable energy generation device 8. In some embodiments, as shown in Fig. 1, the renewable energy generation device 8 may comprise at least one solar panel. In some embodiments, the renewable energy generation device receiving platform 6 may be large enough to support up to eight solar panels, each having dimensions of about 2 m to 2.5 m by about 1 m to 1.5 m. Thus, in some embodiments, the renewable energy generation device receiving platform 6 may have a footprint of about 5 m by about 5 m, i.e. about 25 m2 in total. It will be appreciated that in some embodiments the number of solar panels may be larger than eight and thus the footprint of the renewable energy generation device receiving platform 6 may be larger. In order to support the solar panels 8 on the platform 6, the renewable energy generation device receiving platform 6 may further comprise a plurality of solar rails 42. Each of the plurality of solar rails 42 may comprise a member that delimits an edge of the renewable energy generation device receiving platform 6. In some embodiments, the platform 6 may comprise four solar rails 42. Each of the solar rails 42 may be about 5 m to 5.5 m long and arranged perpendicularly to their adjacent solar rails 42 so as to form a square. In some embodiments, each solar rail 42 may be formed by two parts connected together. The solar rails 42 may be located on top of the base members 41 and attached thereto. The solar rails 42 may provide attachment points for the solar panels 8. In an alternative embodiment, the renewable energy generation device receiving platform 6 may be configured to receive another type of renewable energy device. For example, the renewable energy generation device receiving platform 6 may be configured to receive and support a plurality of wind turbines (not shown). The plurality of wind turbines may be either horizontal or vertical axis turbines, although vertical axis turbines may be preferable due to their more compact nature. In such an embodiment, the platform 6 may comprise the plurality of base members 41, which may have attachment points (not shown) on them for attaching turbines. Alternatively, the platform 6 may comprise a surface layer (not shown) extending on and across the base members 41 that provides a platform floor. The plurality of wind turbines may be attached to the platform floor. It will be appreciated that in some embodiments, the platform 6 may support a combination of renewable energy generation devices 8 such as soiar panels and wind turbines. In the present embodiment, the wave energy generation device 4 may be located centrally in the renewable energy generation module 1. That is, the wave energy generation device 4 may be located within the structural frame 2. As shown in Fig. 2 to Fig. 4, the wave energy generation device 4 may comprise an oscillating water column 51, Thus, the oscillating water column 51 may be located within the internal volume 16 of the structural frame 2. The oscillating water column 51 may comprise a tubular column 52. The tubular column 52 may defines a water receiving chamber 53 therein. The oscillating water column 51 may further comprise a wind turbine 54 and a generator 55 connected to the wind turbine 54. The wind turbine 54 may be configured to rotate relative to the generator 55 such that when the wind turbine 54 rotates the generator generates electricity. The tubular column 52 may comprise a plurality of side walls 57. The number of side walls 57 may be equal to the number of side walls formed by the structural frame 2. Each of the side wails 57 may extend from the upper end of the structural frame 2 to the bottom end of the structural frame 2. The side walls 57 may extend parallel to the longitudinal axis A of the structural frame 2. The longitudinal edges of one side wall 57 may be in contact with the longitudinal edges of the adjacent side walls 57. The side walls 57 may be connected such that water cannot pass therebetween. In some embodiments, a side wall 57 may be attached to the second members 12 that form a side wall of the structural frame 2. The side walls 57 may additionally or alternatively be attached to the first members 11 of the structural frame 2. The tubular column 52 may comprise an upper end 58. The upper end 58 of the tubular column 52 is located proximate the upper end 7 of the structural frame 2. The tubular column 52 may further comprise a lower end 59. The lower end of the tubular column 52 may be proximate the lower end of the structural frame 2. The upper end 58 of the tubular column 52 may be closed. In some embodiments., the upper end 58 of the tubular column 52 may be closed by the top panel 14 of the structural frame 2. In an alternative embodiment, the tubular column 52 may comprise a top wail (not shown) that closes the upper end 58 of the tubular column 52. The lower end 59 of the tubular column 52 is configured to be located below the surface of the body of water during use. The upper end 58 of the tubular column 52 may be configured to be located above the surface of the body of water during use. The oscillating water column 51 may be configured to cause water within the water receiving chamber 53 to oscillate between an upper level and a lower level. The upper level may be the highest point that the water reaches in the water receiving chamber 53. The lower level may be the lowest point that the water reaches in the water receiving chamber 53. It will be appreciated that the upper and lower levels may be distinct for each wave in the body of water. That is, the upper level may be the peak of a wave and the lower level may be the bottom of the trough between adjacent waves. Furthermore, successive waves may have different upper and iower levels. The water within the oscillating water column 51 may oscillate between an upper level and a lower level about an equilibrium point. The equilibrium point may be considered to be the water level that the surface of the water in the water receiving chamber 53 would be if there were no waves in the body of water. In some embodiments, the oscillating water column 51 may be configured to cause the water received in the water receiving chamber 53 to oscillate between upper and lower levels that are located further from the equilibrium level than the peaks and troughs of the waves outside of the oscillating water column, during use. This phenomenon may be caused by substantially matching the natural frequency of the tubular column 52 of the oscillating water column 51 to the natural frequency of the waves. Substantially matching the natural frequency of the tubular column 52 to the natural frequency of the waves can be achieved by using the correct design parameters for length and width of the tubular column 52. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the tubular column 52 may comprise six side walls 57. The six side walls 57 may be arranged so as to form a hexagonal tubular column 52. It will be appreciated that the cross-sectional shape of an oscillating water column is usually circular. However, the inventors have found that it is particularly challenging to produce a tubular cylindrical oscillating water column 51 in remote island areas. Therefore, the hexagonal tubular column 52 provides the optimum compromise between providing an efficient functioning oscillating water column 51 and ease of assembly in situ on a remote island. As previously mentioned, in some embodiments, the oscillating water column 51 may have a hexagonal cross-section. In some embodiments, the water receiving chamber 53 of the oscillating water column 51 may have a length in the range of about 1.5 m to about 5 m. In some embodiments, the water receiving chamber 53 of the oscillating water column 51 may have a length of about 3 m. In some embodiments, the water receiving chamber 53 of the oscillating water column 51 may have a maximum width of about 2 m to about 3 m. The oscillating water column 51 may comprise an aperture 61. The aperture 61 may be located in a side wall 57 of the tubular column 52. The aperture 61 may be located In the side wall 57 proximate the upper end 7 of the structural frame 2. For example, referring to Fig. 4, the aperture 61 may be located in the upper end of the side wall 57 such that the aperture 61 opens between the first second member 12a and the second second member 12b. The aperture 61 may be generally rectangular in cross-section. However, it will be appreciated that the aperture 61 may have some other crosssection. The aperture 61 may be configured to allow air to exit and enter the water receiving chamber 53 in dependence on the water level of the water oscillating within the water receiving chamber 53. In some embodiments, the aperture 61 may have a width, in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A of the structural frame 2, in the range of about 0.05 m to about 0.5 m. In some embodiments, the aperture 61 may have a width of about 0.15 m. In some embodiments, the aperture 61 may have a height, in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis A of the structural frame 2, in the range of about 0.05 m to about 0.5 m. In some embodiments, the aperture 61 may have a height of about 0.3 m. The wind turbine 54 may be located proximate to the aperture 61 in the side wall 57 of the tubular column 52. As illustrated in Fig. 4, the wind turbine 57 may be located adjacent the aperture 61 in the side wall 57 of the tubular column 52. That is, the centre of the aperture 61 and the centre of the wind turbine 54 may be located on the same plane extending perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the structural frame 2. The wind turbine 54 may be configured to be rotated by the air flowing out of and into the water receiving chamber 53 of the tubular column 52 in dependence on the water level in the water receiving chamber 53, as will be explained in more detail hereinafter. In some embodiments, the oscillating water column 51 may further comprise a turbine shroud 65 or duct 65. The turbine shroud 65 may be located adjacent to the aperture 61 in the side wall 57 of the tubular column 52. The turbine shroud 65 may be located on the outside of the tubular column 52. The turbine shroud 65 may be configured to house the wind turbine 54. In some embodiments, the turbine shroud 65 may extend from the peripheral edge of the aperture 61 in the side wall 57 of the tubular column 52. Thus, the turbine shroud 65 may define a flow path to the wind turbine 54 for air exiting the water receiving chamber 53 in the tubular column 52 through the aperture 61. The turbine shroud 65 may also define the flow path from the wind turbine 54 into the water receiving chamber 53 in the tubular column 52 through the aperture 61. The turbine shroud 65 may extend completely over the wind turbine 54 such that the wind turbine 54 does not protrude from the turbine shroud 65. The turbine shroud 65 may have a central axis that extends substantially perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis A of the structural frame 2. In some embodiments, the turbine shroud 65 may comprise a generally rectangular tube 66 formed from four side walls 67, as shown in Fig. 1. The generally rectangular tube 66 may be open ended at both ends. The side walls 67 of the turbine shroud 65 may be generally planar. In some embodiments, the turbine shroud 65 may be configured to accelerate air flow towards the wind turbine 54. The turbine shroud 65 may be configured to accelerate air flow towards the wind turbine in both directions. Thus, the increased speed of the air can increase the speed with which the wind turbine rotates enabling more energy to be generated. For example, the turbine shroud 65 may be shaped to take advantage of the venturi effect. As shown in Fig. 1 and Fig. 4, the wind turbine 54 may be a vertical axis turbine 71. The vertical axis turbine 71 may comprise a shaft 72 and a plurality of turbine blades 73 extending from the shaft 72. The vertical axis turbine may rotate about an axis extending through the shaft 72. The shaft 72 of the vertical axis turbine 71 may extend perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis A of the structural frame 2. That is, the shaft 72 of the vertical axis turbine 71 may extend in the horizontal direction. However, the wind turbine 54 is still considered to be a vertical axis turbine 71 because the shaft 72 extends perpendicularly to the air flow direction through the turbine shroud 65. In some embodiments, the vertical axis turbine 71 may rotate in the same direction regardless of the air flow direction relative to the vertical axis turbine 71. In some embodiments, the vertical axis turbine 71 may be a savonius wind turbine. In some embodiments, the vertical axis turbine 71 may be a twisted savonius wind turbine. In some embodiments, the vertical axis wind turbine 71 may be a darrieus wind turbine or any other known vertical axis turbine. Referring to Fig. 4, a brief explanation of the functioning of the oscillating water-column 51 wii! be described. The renewable energy generation module 1 may be placed in a body of water close to the shore of a remote island location. The plurality of floatation devices 3 may keep an upper portion 4 of the module 1 above the surface of the body of water. During use, waves generated by atmospheric conditions may travel towards and past the module 1, in the direction of arrow M. As the wave passes the module, it reaches the tubular column 52 of the oscillating water column 51. The tubular column is configured such that the water flow upwards in the water receiving chamber 53, as shown by arrow N. As the water moves upwards in the tubular column 52, it displaces the air above it at the top of' the water receiving chamber 53, The air is forced out of the tubular column 52 through the aperture 61 in the side wall 57. Air forced out of the aperture 61 in the tubular column 52 flows along the turbine shroud 65 and past the wind turbine 54, see arrow P, causing the wind turbine 54 to rotate. Rotation of the wind turbine 54 relative to the generator 55 generates electricity. The electricity may be transferred to a battery on land for storage via a cable (not shown). The cable may be fixed to the floor of the body of water, i.e. sea floor. As the wave moves past the module 1, the water in the water receiving chamber 53 moves down the tubular column 52 in the direction of arrow Q. The downward movement of the water causes a vacuum in the top of the tubular column 52 which suck air in from outside the module 1 through the turbine shroud 65 and past the wind turbine, see arrow R, causing the wind turbine 54 to rotate, and thus generating electricity in the generator 55, shown schematically in Fig. 1. Referring briefly now to Fig. 5 and Fig. 6, a renewable energy generation system 100 is shown. The renewable energy generation system 100 may be for use in a body of water. The renewable energy generation system 100 comprises a plurality of renewable energy generation modules 1. The renewable energy generation modules 1 of the renewable energy generation system 100 are generally the same as previously described and so a detailed description thereof will be omitted herein for the sake of brevity. Each of the renewable energy generation modules 1 is connected to its adjacent renewable generation modules 1. The renewable energy generation system 100 further comprises a tidal energy generation device 101. The tidal energy generation device 101 may be suspended between the plurality of renewable energy generation modules 1. In some embodiments, the renewable energy generation modules 1 may be connected together by connecting members .1.10. The connecting members 110 may comprise a plurality of peripheral connecting members 111. The peripheral connecting members 111 may connect adjacent renewable energy generation modules 1. The peripheral connecting members 111 may be configured to hoid together the individual modules 1 to form the renewable energy generation system 100. In some embodiments, the connecting members 110 may further comprise at least one crossbeam members 112. The crossbeam members 112 may connect opposing renewable energy generation modules 1. For example, the exemplary illustrated renewable energy generation system 100 may comprise four renewable energy generation modules 1. The four renewable energy generation modules 1 may be arranged in a generally square or rectangular configuration. Thus, the renewable energy generation system 100 may comprise four peripheral connecting members ill. The peripheral connecting members 111 may extend between adjacent modules 1 and may extend perpendicularly to adjacent peripheral connecting members 111. The renewable energy generation system 100 may comprise two crossbeam members 112. The crossbeam members 112 extend between modules 1 in opposing corners of the renewable energy generation system 100. In some embodiments, the two crossbeam members 112 may overlap in the centre of the renewable energy generation system 100. In some embodiments, each of the connection members 110 may comprise an upper connection member and a lower connection member. For example, referring to Fig. 7, the crossbeam members 112 each comprise an upper crossbeam member 112a and a lower crossbeam member 112.b. The tidal energy generation device 101 may comprise a vertical axis rotor 102 and a electricity generator 103. The vertical axis rotor 102 may comprise a shaft 105 and a plurality of blades 106 extending generally radially from the shaft 105. One end of the shaft 105 may extend into the generator 103 such that when the rotor 102 rotates, relative movement between the rotor 102. and the generator 103 generates electricity. The tidal energy generation device 101 may be supported by the at least one crossbeam member 112. In some embodiments, the vertical axis rotor 102 may extend between the upper and lower crossbeam members 112a, 112b. In some embodiments, the upper crossbeam members 112a may comprise holes 114 configured to receive the shaft 104 of the rotor 102. 'Thus, the shaft 104 may be able to extend through the upper crossbeam 112a into the generator 103. Irs some embodiments, the upper crossbeam members 112a may be connected in the centre of the module 100 by a joining plate having a hole 114 through which the shaft 104 of the rotor 102 may extend. The vertical axis rotor 102 of the tidal energy generation device 101 may be configured to be located below the surface of the body of water on which the renewable energy generation system 100 floats during use. Preferably, the whole length of the plurality of blades 105 of the rotor 102 are submerged below the surface of the body of water. The electricity generator 103 may be located above the vertical axis rotor 102. That is, the electricity generator 103 may be located above the surface of the body of water that the renewable energy generation system 100 floats on during use. In some embodiments, the electricity generator 103 may be located above the upper crossbeam member 112a. Thus, the vertical axis rotor 102 may be rotated by motion of the tides and / or currents within the body of water to generate electricity. In some embodiments, the crossbeams 112 may further comprise at least one guide panel 116. The guide panel 116 may extend between the upper and lower crossbeam members 112a, 112b. A guide panel 116 may extend between the upper and lower crossbeam 112a, 112b on each side of the vertical axis rotor 102. Therefore, the guide panels 116 may be configured to restrict the area through which water can flow through the renewable energy generation system 100, The guide panels 116 may be configured to direct water towards a narrow opening 117 where the vertical axis rotor 102 is located. Therefore, the system 100 may take advantage of the Bernoulli effect as water that passes through the opening is speed up, which turns the vertical axis rotor faster and generates more electricity. It will be appreciated that in embodiments such as the illustrated embodiment, both the crossbeam members 112 may comprise guide panels 116. Thus, the system 100 can provide four narrowing segments 118 that water can be directed through. Thus, energy can be generated by the tidal energy generation device 101 no matter which way the system 100 is orientated relative to the direction of the flow of water. The narrowing segments 118 may have a contraction ratio in the range of about 2 to about 10. That is, the ratio of the distance between outermost edges of adjacent guide panels relative to the distance between the innermost edges of the adjacent side panels may be in the range of about 2 to about 10 The larger ratio, the more the water can be sped up and the more electricity can be generated. It will be appreciated that the only moving part of a module 1 is the shrouded turbine and the only other moving part of the system 100 is the vertical axis rotor 102 of the tidal energy generation device 101. Thus, there are very few parts that can be adversely affected by submersion in a body of water or that can trap or injure wildlife. The various embodiments described herein are presented only to assist in 5 understanding and teaching the claimed features. These embodiments are provided as a representative sample of embodiments only, and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. It is to be understood that advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or the other aspects described herein are not to be considered limitations on the scope of the inventions as defined by the claims or 10 limitations on equivalents to the claims, and that other embodiments may be utilised and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. Various embodiments of the invention may suitably comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of, appropriate combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc., other than those specifically 15 described herein. In addition, this disclosure may include other inventions not presently claimed, but which may be in the future.

Claims

1. A renewable energy generation module for use in a body of water, the renewable energy generation module comprising:a structural frame;a plurality of floatation devices supported by and located outside of the structure! frame, the plurality of floatation devices configured to maintain an upper portion of the module above the surface of the body of water;a wave energy generation device located centrally within the structural frame; anda renewable energy generation device receiving platform located on the upper end of the structural frame, the platform being configured to receive a renewable energy generation device.

2. The renewable energy generation module according to claim 1, wherein the wave energy generation device comprises an oscillating water column.3, The renewable energy generation module according to claim 2, wherein the oscillating water column comprises a tubular column defining a water receiving chamber and a wind turbine connected to a generator.

4. The renewable energy generation module according to claim 3, wherein the tubular column comprises an open lower end configured to be located below the surface of the body of water and a closed upper end configured to be located above the surface of the body of water.

5. The renewable energy generation module according to claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the oscillating water column comprises a natural frequency that substantially matches the material frequency of the waves and is configured to cause water within the water receiving chamber to oscillate between upper and lower levels that are located further from an equilibrium level than the peaks and troughs of the waves outside the oscillating water column, during use.

6. The renewable energy generation module according to any one of claim 3 to claim 5, wherein the oscillating water column comprises an aperture located in a side wail of the tubular column proximate its upper end, the aperture configured to allow air to exit and enter the water receiving chamber in dependence on the oscillating water level.

7. The renewable energy generation module according to claim 6, wherein the wind turbine is located proximate the aperture, the wind turbine configured to be rotated by the flow of air out of and into the water receiving chamber of the oscillating water column.

8. The renewable energy generation module according to claim 6 or claim 7, wherein the oscillating water column further comprises a turbine shroud located adjacent to the aperture on the outside of the tubular column, the wind turbine being housed in the turbine shroud.

9. The renewable energy generation module according to claim 8, wherein the turbine shroud is configured to accelerate air flow towards the wind turbine in both directions.

10. The renewable energy generation module according to any one of claim 3 to claim 9, wherein the wind turbine is a vertical axis turbine.

11. The renewable energy generation module according to claim 10, wherein the shaft of the vertical axis turbine extends perpendicularly to the air flow direction.

12. The renewable energy generation module according to claim 10 or claim 11, wherein the shaft of the vertical axis turbine extends perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the module.

13. The renewable energy generation module according to any one of claim 2 to claim 12, wherein the oscillating water column has a hexagonal cross-section.

14. The renewable energy generation module according to any one of claim 2 to claim 13, wherein the water receiving chamber of the oscillating water column has a length in the range of about 2 m to about 4 rn.

15. The renewable energy generation module according to any one of claim 2 to claim 14, wherein the water receiving chamber of the oscillating water column has a maximum width in the range of about 1 m to about 1.5 m.

16. The renewable energy generation module according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a plurality of solar panels mounted on the renewable energy generation device receiving platform.

17. The renewable energy generation module according to any one of the preceding claims,, further comprising a plurality of wind turbines mounted on the renewable energy generation device receiving platform.

18. The renewable energy generation module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the module is configured to float on a body of water during use.

19. The renewable energy generation module according to claim 18, wherein the renewable energy generation device receiving platform is configured to be located in the range of about 0.5 m to 1.5 m above the surface of the body of water during use.

20. The renewable energy generation module according to claim 19, wherein the distance between the upper surface of the plurality of floatation devices and the renewable energy generation device receiving platform is in the range of about 0.5 m to about 1.5 rn.

21. A renewable energy generation system for use in a body of water, the renewable energy generation system comprising:a plurality of renewable energy generation modules according to any one of the preceding claims,wherein each of the renewable energy generation modules is connected to the adjacent renewable energy generation modules; anda tidal energy generation device suspended between the plurality of renewable energy generation modules.

22. The renewable energy generation system according to claim 21, wherein the tidal energy generation device comprises a vertical axis rotor and an electricity generator.

23. The renewable energy generation system according to ciaim 22, wherein the vertical axis rotor of the tidal energy generation device is submerged in water during use, and the electricity generator is located above the vertical axis rotor above the surface of the body of water.

24. The renewable energy generation system according to claim 22 or claim 23, wherein the tidal energy generation device is supported by crossbeams connecting opposing renewable energy generation modules, the vertical axis rotor being located 5 between upper and lower beams configured to be submerged during use.

25. The renewable energy generation system according to claim 24, wherein the crossbeams comprise guide panels extending between the upper and lower beams configured to restrict the area through which water can flow and accelerate water 10 towards a narrow opening where the vertical axis rotor is located.

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