Tidal stream energy is not yet as developed as wind energy but has the advantage of being as predictable as the tides. Tidal energy devices do not have to be engineered to withstand storms and, as they are underwater, have minimal visual impact.

The Pulse Stream 100 converter uses a pair of hydrofoils which oscillate across the tidal flow to enable the extraction of energy from shallow water of 10 to 30m mean sea water level, an area not yet exploitable. The Pulse Stream device is the first to target this resource and will thus increase the total exploitable tidal current power available in UK waters.

This will increase the economic viability of tidal stream energy as shallow water is typically closer to areas of high energy demand, resulting in lower capital and operational costs.

The Carbon Trust recently concluded that the UK had significant tidal stream resources which could supply 6% of UK energy demand, excluding any tidal energy that could be extracted from shallow water. However, it has been estimated that if energy from shallow water is included it could meet 14% of total UK energy demand.

A joint venture company will be formed by a consortium as a development vehicle for the project. Headed by international renewable energy consultancy IT Power Ltd, the consortium comprises BMT Renewables Ltd, Pulse Generation Ltd, the University of Hull, CIC Omec Ltd, and Econnect Ltd. BMT's specialist contribution will be in the areas of operability analysis, lifecycle costing, design validation, EIA, and health & safety assessment.

Dr Phil Thompson, managing director of BMT Renewables said, 'This innovative device has the potential to move forward significantly the practical and cost effective implementation of tidal stream power in the UK. Over the last few years BMT has simulated millions of hours of offshore operations for a range of operators and is pleased to be able to assist by bringing our understanding of operability and availability in the marine environment.'

MJInformation No: 21819