Energy generator goes with the flow

The DeltaStream device, developed by tidal stream technology company Tidal Energy Ltd (TEL), will be among the world’s first grid-connected demonstration devices to generate green, sustainable and predictable tidal power.

“This is a significant milestone for us as a company and for the industry as a whole,” said Martin Murphy, managing director, Tidal Energy Ltd. “We have achieved a number of firsts with this project, including those relating to the environmental consents, the grid connection and the installation process – where the turbine and foundation are installed together.”

Unlike other tidal designs currently being developed, the patented 400kW device combines a freestanding triangular base with a state-of-the-art hydraulics system, which ensures the turbine freely turns to capture the best tidal flow and maximise power generation. The gravitational pull anchors the device in place, eliminating the need for costly drilling into the seabed and ensuring low installation and maintenance costs relative to the electricity it generates, TEL said.

“The launch of DeltaStream, and the supply chain that now exists as a consequence of its development, marks the birth of the tidal industry in Wales. We remain committed to leading the expansion of this industry and to the creation of green jobs by building on the wealth of expertise present in the UK and the country’s plentiful resources,” added Mr Murphy.

TEL’s device, which weighs 150 tonnes and has a frame of 16m long by 20m high, also includes a number of design features to minimise any potential impact on the surrounding environment. As a result, it is said to be the first project to receive precautionary ‘deploy and monitor’ environmental consent in a designated Marine Special Area of Conservation.

EU funds worth £8m from the Welsh government have been invested in the project, with match funding from majority shareholder, Eco2 Ltd.

Following a 12-month testing period, TEL will join forces with Eco2 to install up to nine DeltaStream devices off St David’s Head in Pembrokeshire. These installations will form a 10MW DeltaStream commercial array, and generate enough power for around 10,000 homes.

By Rachael Doyle