Spanish Magallanes launches scale tidal turbine plant 28 November 2014

Spanish tidal turbine specialist Magallanes has successfully deployed its floating turbine at the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC), which is supported by the EU-funded Marinet project.

The 1:10 scale ATIR prototype was installed on EMEC's Shapinsay Sound test site.

Magallanes has been developing its concept since 2007, and has already trialled prototypes in test tank and river conditions.

Alejandro Marquis de Magallanes, managing director, says the team is using EMEC as a first step towards testing a full-scale prototype 42 meters long and weighing 350 tons – currently in construction – within the next 12 months.

"This test project allows us to demonstrate the integrity and viability of the concept and its subsystems in a real sea climate," states de Magallanes.

"It will help inform the construction of our 2MW floating platform to ensure a stable and optimal design," he continues.

"One of the most important steps was to discover maintenance needs, as well as gaining operational experience at sea."

Captain David Thomson, managing director of Orcades Marine Management Consultants, comments: "As principal contractor, managing the marine operations and providing onshore support to Magallanes, we are pleased with the quick and successful deployment of the ATIR scale tidal device.

"It was a real Orkney team effort with assistance provided by local companies Leask Marine and Heddle Construction."

Marinet (the Marine Renewables Infrastructure Network) was formed to accelerate the development of marine renewable energy by bringing together world-class testing facilities to offer EU-funded testing.

Brian Tinham

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