Sheffield-based tidal power provider Pulse Tidal is planning to place what it believes will be the world’s first commercially-viable tidal energy array at Kyle Rhea, the fast-flowing straits between the Isle of Skye and the Scottish mainland. Operating in shallow waters close to the shore, Pulse plans to deliver electricity at an installed cost of £4m/MW.
Pulse's system is set to give a 15 per cent return on investment (ROI) if the hoped-for harmonisation of Renewable Obligation Certificates (ROC) for tidal and wave energy is implemented in Scotland — meaning both forms of energy have five ROCs. Under the current three ROC system, Pulse says the device will give a ten per cent ROI.
It is the shallow-water capability of the Pulse device which allows it to offer this low cost of installation, says the company — adding that the Kyle Rhea straits have the potential to produce 20MW.
“If tidal energy is to play a major part in the renewables sector then the technology has to deliver low-cost electricity that will see investors gaining a decent return," says Pulse chief executive Bob Smith. "This is exactly what Pulse has developed: a system that has minimal installation and maintenance costs because it works close to shore; a system that is entirely scalable; a system that is completely below water and with minimal or no environmental impact.
Kick-starting the tidal energy boom
“In these shallow waters a single Pulse device can generate 1.2MW, while other technologies would generate considerably less. This means an energy company could invest in an array of Pulse devices and quickly produce energy at a profit.
“At £4m per MW we are delivering what the market needs to really kick-start the tidal energy boom, because in the medium and long-term the technology has to be cost-effective otherwise no-one will invest in it. Only through commercially-viable tidal arrays will we see anything like a truly worthwhile tidal energy sector. Scotland is keen to be the world leader in renewable energy — and we are excited about working there.”
Kyle Rhea possesses all the characteristics needed to become the world’s first commercially-viable tidal energy site, including shallow water, strong tide and sheltered location, says Pulse, which has already proved that its system works with a trial device in the Humber. The company has also received a €8m EU grant to develop its first commercial generator.
Pulse’s system operates in tidal streams which move horizontal blades up and down to drive a generator. The system sits on the sea-bed, fully submerged even in shallow water, and is therefore invisible in operation.
