Latest news

Tidal farm project for Pentland Firth announced

A large multinational energy company has secured a grid connection point for a planned tidal energy project in the Pentland Firth.

International Power Marine Development, plans to have the tidal farm operational by 2011.

The company's James Minto will be overseeing the project, which is waiting on an environmental assessment, Crown Estate lease and planning permission.

Mr Minto said: "This tidal farm will complement prototype testing and bring tidal stream technology to commercial reality. Together with stakeholders, we have an opportunity to create industry best practice for environmental impact assessments and marine operations."

The Pentland Firth is the first area that has been opened to commercial-scale marine generation projects.

Earlier this month a survey of the area was launched to get a clearer picture of the marine power that could be generated.

The research is being carried out by development agency Highlands and Islands Enterprise.

Its results will be made available to companies looking to develop marine power projects in the firth.

Sign up for regular email updates to help you save you save money and energy