Tapping the turn of the tides

Seagen The world’s first commercial tidal turbine, known as Seagen, is now installed in the turbulent waters at the mouth of Strangford Lough. Despite a few teething problems during its initial commissioning phase, it is expected to provide the energy equivalent to the needs of 1000 homes, once it is fully operational.

With DTI support and additional funding from NIE, this innovative technology has the potential to secure commercial applications in many countries around the world – anywhere that has a swiftly-flowing tidal current.

In Northern Ireland, it could eventually be possible to generate tidal power for tens of thousands of homes, according to an initial government study in 2003. Tides around the Copeland Islands, Fair Head and in Strangford Lough all offer outstanding opportunities, although the technologies will need further refinement and testing.

But if this potential is to be exploited and developed, it needs to have public support and understanding. To address this issue, SDC Scotland has published a straightforward guide to this new tidal stream technology, ‘On Stream: creating energy from tidal currents’, which seeks to clear the confusion that surrounds tidal energy and inform public debate.

Jim Kitchen, Head of the SDC in Northern Ireland, said, "There is enormous potential in this new technology, not only by generating 'green' electricity for our homes and businesses but also in the possibilities it offers for export. The Seagen device was assembled at Harland & Wolff in Belfast; with our engineering tradition and expertise, we could look forward to manufacturing future turbines here as well."

SDC’s Scottish Commissioner, Hugh Raven, added, "Tidal stream offers big opportunities. However, for it to become a viable proposition, Government must 'stay the course', whilst putting in place a robust regulatory framework and supporting the research required to understand potential environmental impacts. Developing this new industry will take time and everyone needs to be realistic about the timescale."

» Download On Stream. Hard copies are available from SDC’s NI office.

Read more about the SDC’s work on Tidal Power