Scottish Power plans worldÂ’s largest tidal farm

subscribe

The world's largest tidal-powered energy farm could be built off the coast of Northern Ireland by Scottish Power.

Three sites are under investigation - two off Scotland and one off the coast of Northern Ireland - for up to 60 underwater turbines, generating 60 MW of power for 40,000 homes.

Scottish Power, the energy firm behind the plans, said the technology could make Scotland a global leader in the field.

Director of the firm's renewable arm Keith Anderson said: "This is a historic day for the development of marine energy.

"The rapid technological advancement of tidal power has enabled us to progress plans for this substantial project which has the real potential to deliver significant environmental and economic benefits."

The announcement came as the Crown Office opened parts of the seabed for leasing to developers. The tide-turbines are expected to be weighed to the floor of the sea in the Pentland Firth between the Scottish mainland and Orkney, in the Sound of Islay and off the coast of Country Antrim, Northern Ireland.

The structures stand 30 metres tall on three legs and can work as deep as 100 metres below sea level with the ability to turn to harness tide movements. The 20-metre blades would turn at least 10 metres below the surface to avoid shipping, developers said.

Related News

bcs-green-energy-ambitions-face-power-supply-challenges

B.C.'s Green Energy Ambitions Face Power Supply Challenges

VANCOUVER - British Columbia's ambitious green energy initiatives are encountering significant hurdles due to a strained electrical grid and increasing demand. The province's commitment to reducing carbon emissions and transitioning to renewable energy sources is being tested by the limitations of its current power infrastructure.

Rising Demand and Dwindling Supply

In recent years, B.C. has experienced a surge in electricity demand, driven by factors such as population growth, increased use of electric vehicles, and the electrification of industrial processes. However, the province's power supply has struggled to keep pace. In fiscal year 2024, BC Hydro imported a record 13,600 gigawatt…

READ MORE
ev charger

If B.C. wants to electrify all road vehicles by 2055, it will need to at least double its power output: study

READ MORE

hydro one logo

Hydro One announces pandemic relief fund for Hydro One customers

READ MORE

extreme-heat-boosts-us-electricity-bills

Extreme Heat Boosts U.S. Electricity Bills

READ MORE

Pickering nuclear station is closing as planned, despite calls for refurbishment

READ MORE