Hann-Ocean has identified the need for small-scale electricity generation in areas which favour a device of relatively small proportions. To address this need, the company has in recent times decided to upgrade and optimize its first generation WEC, the 4kWp Drakoo-B0004. Upon completion, its small size and modular design would alleviate the risks and costs associated with transportation, installation and demonstration of the device at site. The model's low price point could also make it attractive to parties who might be interested in purchasing a stand-alone trial device before committing to a large-scale venture.

The Drakoo-B0004 was originally developed, tested and implemented in an active project with SembCorp Marine, Singapore in 2013. Between 2013 and 2018, Hann-Ocean extended its research, design and testing capabilities which led to the development of the second generation, 15kWp wave energy converter, the Drakoo-B0015 in 2018. The company intends to use this accrued experience and expertise to upgrade and optimize the B0004 WEC and prepare it for roll-out.

The difference between the two WEC models is not limited to their power output alone. The B0015 WEC is 3m long, 3.5m wide and 5.1m high, with a total weight of 12 tons. In contrast, the B0004 is 3m long, 2.39m wide, 2.45m high and weighs in at a paltry 3 tons. This reduction in overall volume translates into lower material and fabrication costs for the latter device.

Hann-Ocean will be shipping the existing Drakoo-B0004 prototype's hull from Singapore to its test facility in Nantong. As design work on the upgraded model progresses, the company plans on manufacturing and purchasing various parts of the assembly in the domestic market and integrate them with the hull. The assembly will be placed in the "Hann-Ocean 01" wave flume and subjected to tank tests, followed by an extended optimization phase. The efficiency and peak power output of the new and improved Drakoo-B0004 WEC is expected to be significantly higher than the first generation 4kWp device.