Tocardo – a Dutch-based tidal energy turbine manufacturer – has signed up to demonstrate a 20 year pre-commercial array at the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) in Orkney.
Tocardo plans to install eight T2 turbines across two Tocardo systems at EMEC’s grid-connected tidal test site at the Fall of Warness, off Eday, Orkney, with work scheduled to begin in 2017.
Tocardo’s T2 turbines have already been deployed and proven in the Netherlands at the Eastern Scheldt storm surge barrier (Deltaworks).
The planned array at EMEC is the next step in Tocardo’s path towards commercialising their tidal turbine by proving and validating the technology in the volatile offshore environment in Orkney for an extended time period.
Hans van Breugel, Chief Executive, Tocardo, said: “The EMEC project is a breakthrough for our careful roll out of our technology moving from near inshore towards offshore. With multiple turbines operational in low, moderate and extreme high tidal flows we now feel comfortable to go offshore.
“The EMEC opportunity will boost the implementation of Tocardo’s commercial roll out and we’re looking forward to a long and lasting partnership with EMEC.”
Neil Kermode, EMEC Managing Director, said: “It’s fantastic to see Tocardo entering the Scottish market. The tidal array they will deploy will act as a stepping stone towards commercial deployments, and we’re delighted to be working with Tocardo towards that future.”
To date, more marine energy converters have been deployed in Orkney with EMEC than at any other single site in the world. EMEC has hosted 16 wave and tidal energy clients (with 25 marine energy devices) spanning 9 countries.
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