Hydro Group’s System to Connect MeyGen Tidal Energy Project

Aberdeen-based Hydro Group has secured a contract with Atlantis Resources to supply connection systems for the MeyGen tidal energy project.

More than £50 million has been raised to finance the initial stage (phase 1A) of the 398MW tidal array project in the Pentland Firth, Scotland, which involves four submerged turbines generating 6MW being installed as well as the construction of all onshore infrastructure to support the project.

Atlantis Resources, 86% owner of MeyGen Limited, has selected Hydro Group to supply the complete export connection system for one of the tidal turbines, and is currently finalising details for the second phase of the project, the company said.

Doug Whyte, Managing Director at Hydro Group said: “As the first of its kind in the world, the MeyGen project is a true milestone in the marine renewable sector, and being part of it is a significant step for Hydro Group, reinforcing our commitment to supporting renewable system requirements.”

The agreement involves Hydro Group providing a single housing for a hybrid with a power output of 6.5kV, incorporating the power and communication connection system, mechanical loading system, and fibre optic and instrumentation lines.

When fully completed, the MeyGen project will have the potential to provide power for 175,000 homes in Scotland from up to 269 tidal turbines secured to the seabed, with the first power to the national grid expected to be delivered in 2016.