A newly extended pier in Orkney is currently host to more tidal energy technologies than at any other single site in the world.
Five tidal energy developers – OpenHydro, Alstom Hydro, Scotrenewables Tidal Power, ANDRITZ Hydro Hammerfest and Voith Hydro – have all used the new facilities in recent weeks, with four devices currently on the quayside.
At 385 metres – almost a quarter of a mile – Hatston Pier is now Scotland’s longest commercial deep-water berth.
The 160-metre extension to the existing 225-metre pier was built to provide a major support and logistics base for marine renewable energy industry and was officially opened earlier this year.
Orkney Islands Council’s £8 million project to extend Hatston Pier on the outskirts of Kirkwall attracted £3.2 million in support from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).
Council Vice-Convener Jim Foubister said: “It is great to see such a high level of activity so soon after the completion of the pier extension.
“Our primary aim in extending the pier was to support the marine renewable energy sector, so we are delighted to see so many tidal developers making good use of the new facilities.
“Without the extension, it would have been impossible for so many companies to have sufficient space to work alongside each other as they prepare their turbines for sea.
“The extension also gives us far more flexibility in the way we use the pier – as can be seen by the range of business we’re attracting. As well as the tidal developers, a range of ships including a cruise liner, an offshore supply vessel, tugs, barges and the Aberdeen-Orkney-Shetland ferry have all used the pier in recent days.”
In addition, a giant shore-based crane, capable of lifting up to 1000 tonnes, has been assembled on the pier as part of the current activity, which is also being assisted by a number of support companies, some locally based, others from further afield.
Eileen Linklater, Client Relationship Manager, at the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) , said: “At no other site in the world would you find such an array of tidal energy devices than at the quay at Hatston today.
“It’s fantastic to see the new extension being utilised so soon after opening, and credit should be given to the Council for investing in the port infrastructure around Orkney which is truly a benefit to not only our clients, but other industries as well.”
[mappress]
Press release, August 2, 2013; Image: orkney