An innovative tidal energy platform has generated first power from the tidal currents of Grand Passage in Digby County, Nova Scotia.
Following a period of commissioning and testing environmental monitoring equipment, Sustainable Marine Energy has satisfied the requirements set out by the Canadian Department of Fisheries and Oceans to commence operation of tidal turbines on the PLAT-I platform. Originally developed and tested in Scotland with support provided by Scottish Enterprise, it was relocated to Nova Scotia and installed at Grand Passage in September 2018.
On Saturday, February 23, the system, equipped with instream turbines developed by SCHOTTEL HYDRO, generated first power, becoming the only operational in-stream tidal energy system currently installed in Nova Scotia.
The works performed over the past weeks, including the installation of turbine blades at site, have proven the unique advantages provided by SME’s PLAT-I technology. All critical components can be accessed and serviced on site, and in Canadian winter conditions.
Jason Hayman, the Managing Director of Sustainable Marine Energy commented, “We are very proud to have achieved this important milestone, as part of our staged testing and demonstration program in Nova Scotia. We have been working diligently with a wide range of stakeholders, including research organisations, academia and regulators to develop effective methods of monitoring the environmental interactions of this new form of electricity generation, and will continue to do so as we advance our technology. Our objective is to provide coastal and island communities with a robust, reliable and environmentally benign renewable energy solution.’’
Nova Scotia Energy and Mines Minister Derek Mombourquette said, “Tidal energy continues to develop and remains a significant opportunity for businesses and workers in Nova Scotia. This achievement strengthens our province’s position as a national leader in fighting climate change, and as a global leader in the development of this clean, renewable energy technology.”