Scotland makes waves in the renewable energy sector as the first large scale tidal stream project is launched
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon launched the world’s first large scale tidal stream farm today (12 September 2016). The project is a huge step forward in Scotland’s marine renewables industry and will create job opportunities for skilled workers in this sector. MeyGen and Sound of Islay projects are expected to generate around £275m for Scotland’s economy.
The four turbines weigh almost 200 tonnes each and have now been fully assembled. They will be positioned on top of their foundation structures on the quayside at Nigg, ready for deployment to the MeyGen site in the Pentland Firth. The fully assembled turbines are 15 metres tall, with blades 18 metres in diameter.
The Meygen project, owned by Atlantis Resources, has been supported by Scottish Government’s Renewable Energy Investment Fund (REIF), which is administered by Scottish Enterprise.
Kerry Sharp, Head of Scottish Investment Bank (SIB), the investment division of Scottish Enterprise said:
“The Meygen project is a flagship investment for the Renewable Energy Investment Fund, delivered by SIB on behalf of the Scottish Government, and today’s unveiling marks a significant step in the development of Scotland’s renewables sector.
“This project solidifies Scotland’s place as a world leader in the development, deployment and commercialisation of tidal energy and it is a pleasure to see the years of hard work and innovation come to fruition.”
The Renewable Energy Investment Fund was launched in October 2012. Its aim is to promote the use of energy from specific renewable sources and drive further investment into key areas of Scotland’s renewables industry.