Evopod tidal energy converter gets investment boost

UK marine energy company Aquamarine Power has made a “significant investment” in Ocean Flow Energy to help commercialise and launch a full scale version of the Evopod semi-submersible electricity generator.

Ocean Flow Energy’s Evopod’s patented low motion hull makes it suitable for generating electricity in exposed, deep water sites and harsh environments such as the Pentland Firth and Aquamarine Power said the technology could be used to mount its own Neptune tidal stream energy converters.

A 1/10th scale prototype of the Evopod device has been deployed at Portaferry, Strangford Narrows, Northern Ireland (pictured).

Ocean Flow Energy’s MD, Graeme Mackie, said:

“We have made significant progress with the device to date, taking it out of the tank and into real tidal flow conditions at Strangford. Together with Aquamarine Power we are looking forward to launching a second, full scale device at sea.”

Martin McAdam, CEO of Aquamarine Power, added:

“We are very enthusiastic about the new partnership with Ocean Flow Energy and are delighted to be working with the team. It is an important step toward accessing the full range of tidal stream energy out there. With more than 50% of the UK’s tidal resource located in waters greater than 40 metres deep, the market demand for Evopod is expected to be very strong and Aquamarine Power will be taking full advantage of that.”

No details were disclosed about the level of investment by Aquamarine Power.