New research from Oxford University says Pentland Firth promises to be one of the best sites in the world for tidal power.
Lindsay Leask, Senior Policy Manager for Scottish Renewables , said:
“This latest report confirms what the industry has known for some time; the Pentland Firth is one of the best sites in the world for tidal energy. This has led to the Pentland Firth and Orkney Waters area being earmarked as a key destination for wave and tidal technology and becoming home to Scotland’s first ever Marine Energy Park. There is no doubt Scotland is leading the way and with 1GW (gigawatt) of tidal projects already leased in this area alone, we’re off to a great start.
“There are, however, a number of important factors which need to be taken into consideration when estimating just how large a contribution the tidal energy sector can make to renewable electricity output. Various methodologies for calculating our tidal resource already exist and we are continually working to produce better forecasts. Due to the differences in methodologies, each assessment should be read and understood on its own merit. Yet despite those differences, all studies agree that the Pentland Firth and Scotland as a whole, have a truly remarkable tidal energy resource.
“The confidence in Scotland’s tidal resource led to the industry securing unprecedented levels of investment last year from global companies including ABB, Siemens and Alstom. The industry does however, face a series of challenges if we are to fully capitalise on this phenomenal natural resource. One of the greatest being the costs of access to the grid. It is essential grid connection charges for projects in the north of Scotland and our islands are brought down to levels which will secure further investment and help cement Scotland’s position as the world leader in marine energy.”
[mappress]
Press release, July 11, 2013; Image: scottishrenewables