New Tidal Energy company relocates to Isle of Wight
Isle of Wight MP Andrew Turner recently opened the new HQ offices of innovative technology company Sustainable Marine Energy (SME). The company has relocated to new offices and workshops at Trinity Wharf in East Cowes because they believe that the Isle of Wight has the right support and local supply chain to enable it to build a pioneering new tidal energy turbine platform.
Called PLAT-O, the platform is designed to cut the high installation and maintenance costs and risks traditionally associated with tidal energy devices. The platform will be build with the help of local companies and is expected to create jobs on the island as the project progresses.
PLAT-O's prototype platform will be undergoing sea trials supported by Yarmouth Harbour, and on-going discussions with the Isle of Wight Council and TB Partners will continue in relation to longer-term test and demonstration opportunities.
SME's mission is to create a fresh approach to tidal energy with the goals of delivering a cost-effective tidal turbine deployment platform and, in the longer-term, contributing to the Island Strategic Partnership's ambition of making the Isle of Wight self-sufficient in electricity from renewable sources by 2020.
To achieve this the company has designed PLAT-O a unique subsea platform on which a number of electricity-generating tidal turbines can be safely installed and taut moored in the sea's main tidal flow for maximum energy extraction. The project is currently being part funded by the Department of Energy and Climate Change under an Energy Entrepreneurs Award.
For further information please visit http://www.sustainablemarine.com
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