The MeyGen tidal stream energy project, owned by SAE Renewables (formerly known as SIMEC Atlantis Energy Ltd), aims to advance renewable tidal energy. In 2010, SAE secured an Agreement for Lease for a site at Inner Sound, with approval for a 398MW tidal stream capacity to be developed in stages. The project’s first phase, operational since 2018, includes a 6MW array composed of four 1.5MW turbines that harness tidal power to generate electricity. These turbines, anchored to the seabed, include the AR1500 and Andritz HS1500 models, featuring technology to adapt to dynamic tidal conditions, such as adjustable blades and robust foundations.
Phase 1 also introduced Project Stroma, which added a subsea hub in 2020, allowing multiple turbines to link to a single power cable. This improvement reduces grid connection costs by minimising the amount of onshore conversion equipment and installation time needed. Following Project Stroma, future phases will add further capacity, with Phase 2 set to deliver 59MW from several allocation rounds and targeting commissioning from 2027 to 2029. SAE is additionally exploring energy storage options to pair with the tidal energy project, potentially creating the MeyGen Sustainable Energy Park.
To connect each turbine to shore, MeyGen employs subsea cables routed through drilled boreholes in the seabed, meeting at an onshore Power Conversion Centre (PCC) where electricity is transformed for the grid. MeyGen’s onshore infrastructure, built in 2015, includes access routes, a control centre, and facilities for SSE grid connection. The project also uses specialised vessels for offshore installations, ensuring a streamlined and safe assembly and maintenance process.
MeyGen’s phased development strategy relies on licences and consents from Scottish authorities, including an initial Marine Licence in 2014. Updated in 2017 and 2019, these consents allow gradual turbine deployment within expanded site boundaries. In 2016, onshore and offshore cables, support structures, and turbines were installed, marking the completion of the construction phase. Since then, the project has progressed steadily, with each turbine generating increasing amounts of power and reaching new output records. By 2024, the site achieved 68 GWh of power production and expanded Phase 2 capacity through additional Contracts for Difference (CfD).
Environmental measures are integral to MeyGen’s operations, aiming to minimise impacts on marine life. Mitigation includes burying cables within seabed crevices, monitoring for turbine impacts on seals, and developing failsafe systems to secure turbines in adverse conditions. MeyGen’s environmental management plan also outlines proactive strategies to reduce potential risks to marine mammals, fish, and surrounding ecosystems. The project’s operational safety is supported by real-time monitoring systems and emergency response plans that are regularly reviewed and updated.
The MeyGen project represents a significant advancement in tidal energy, combining innovative technology with rigorous environmental safeguards. With substantial power output achieved and future phases planned, MeyGen sets a benchmark for tidal stream energy’s potential in the renewable energy landscape.
SAE Renewables Limited (LON:SAE) was founded in 2005 as a supplier of tidal stream turbines, SAE quickly grew to include development of tidal stream projects and is the majority owner of MeyGen, the world’s largest tidal stream energy project.
