EMEC is the world’s only recognized ISO/IEC 17025 test laboratory for ocean energy, operating to relevant test laboratory standards to provide independently-verified performance assessments. EMEC is at the forefront in the development of international standards for marine energy and is forging alliances with other countries, exporting knowledge around the world to stimulate the development of a global marine renewables industry.
The Blue Horizon project will expand EMEC’s world-leading tidal test facilities to enable tidal energy arrays to be demonstrated. The investment brings tidal energy closer to becoming a mainstream part of Britain’s energy mix, creating skilled jobs in coastal communities and supporting the government’s mission to make the UK a clean energy superpower.
On receiving the funding, Matthew Finn, EMEC’s Managing Director, said, “This is a major boost for EMEC and the tidal energy sector. This investment will unlock vital infrastructure needed to move from single-device trials to multi-device demonstrations, accelerating the commercialization of tidal power in the UK.
“By enhancing capacity for larger-scale arrays, Blue Horizon will enable the sector to benefit from economies of scale and reduce costs. The upgraded facilities will drive innovation in the technologies and systems required for large-scale tidal deployment worldwide, cementing the UK’s position as a global leader in tidal innovation, while driving industrial growth and strengthening energy security.”
EMEC was set up to kick start an ocean energy sector in the UK and boost economic development in the Highlands and Islands. Over the years EMEC has grown and diversified, and unprecedented activity that has taken place in Orkney due to the presence of EMEC has been a catalyst for economic development, creating jobs and a world-leading supply chain now exporting skills and knowledge around the globe.
