Wave power milestone in Orkney

Britain’s first nearshore wave energy converter has moved another step closer to generating clean, green energy.

Aquamarine Power has completed the crucial first phase in deploying the Oyster device at the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) at Billia Croo in Orkney.

In a carefully planned operation, the 194-tonne, full-scale device was lowered onto its seabed subframe and bolted in place.

The Oyster originated from EPSRC-funded research at Queen’s University Belfast. It is now being connected to sub-sea pipelines which will deliver high-pressure fresh water to an onshore turbine, ahead of grid connection and sea trials.

Oyster is designed to capture the energy found in nearshore waves up to depths of 10 to 12 m. A commercial farm of just 20 devices (10 MW) could provide clean renewable energy to a town of 6500 homes.

The benefit of Oyster is its simplicity. There are minimal moving parts and all electrical components are onshore, making it robust enough to withstand the rigours of Scotland’s harsh seas.

Martin McAdam, chief executive officer of Aquamarine Power, said:

“Getting Oyster into the water and connected to the seabed was always going to be the most difficult step and its completion is a real credit to everyone who has worked hard on planning and executing this major engineering feat on schedule and without any complications.”

The wave energy developer has received the Best Green Industry SME Award at the Scottish Green Awards.

For more information, visit: www.aquamarinepower.com.