Orkney-based Orbital Marine Power has been awarded £3.4 million of Scottish Government funding to help build the world’s most powerful floating tidal turbine.
The firm has been named today as the first recipient of funds from the £10m Saltire Tidal Energy Challenge Fund, with the money going towards development of the next generation of its two-megawatt O2 device.
Scottish Energy Minister, Paul Wheelhouse, said: “We have established a world lead in marine renewable technologies and this project represents a significant step forward in technological development.
“We are delighted this landmark turbine, designed by an innovative Scottish company, will also be built in Scotland.
“We believe tidal energy technology can not only play an important role in our own future energy system, but it has substantial export potential and this fund will help move tidal technologies closer to commercial deployment.
Orbital’s chief executive, Andrew Scott, said: “We greatly appreciate the Scottish Government’s ongoing commitment and support for tidal stream energy, and this award will enable us to deliver a truly exciting and transformational project and continue the proud tradition of Scottish innovation and engineering.
“The O2 project will demonstrate how this emerging industrial sector has the ability to deliver new jobs and open up diversification opportunities for the UK’s supply chain in a growing global market while pioneering solutions for a zero-carbon future.”
