New Scottish pier sees surge in tidal power activity 05 August 2013

A newly extended pier in Orkney is hosting more tidal energy technologies than any other site in the world, with four devices currently on the quayside.

Five tidal energy developers – OpenHydro, Alstom Hydro, Scotrenewables Tidal Power, Andritz Hydro Hammerfest and Voith Hydro – have all been using the new facilities in recent weeks.

The 160-metre extension to the existing 225-metre Hatston Pier, opened earlier this year, was built to provide a support and logistics base for the marine renewable energy industry. It is also home to a giant shore-based crane, capable of lifting up to 1,000 tonnes.

"We are delighted to see so many tidal developers making good use of the new facilities," comments council vice-convener Jim Foubister.

"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," he continues.

"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," says Foubister.

"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."

"At no other site in the world would you find such an array of tidal energy devices than at the quay at Hatston today," states Eileen Linklater, client relationship manager for EMEC (the European Marine Energy Centre).

"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."

The pier – now Scotland's longest commercial deep-water berth – received £8 million from Orkney Islands Council and £3.2 million from the European Regional Development Fund.

Brian Tinham

Related Companies
Alstom Hydropower Ltd
Orbital Marine Power

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