SKF, Proteus Marine Renewables, and GE Vernova’s Power Conversion division have formalised a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to lay the groundwork for a collaboration that could drive the supply of tidal turbine systems to commercial tidal stream projects. This potential alliance will initially aim to provide at least 59 MW of tidal energy to Simec Atlantis Energy’s MeyGen site in Scotland, currently the world’s largest tidal stream facility.
Through this MoU, the three companies intend to combine their strengths in development, delivery, and maintenance to ensure robust performance for tidal power solutions. SKF Marine, within the alliance, will be responsible for rotating equipment and integration of the primary powertrain for the tidal generation system. Proteus Marine Renewables will manage system design, assembly, and offshore services, while GE Vernova’s Power Conversion unit will supply the electrical systems required to link the generator to the grid.
Martin Johannsmann, Managing Director at SKF Marine, emphasised the significant role of ocean energy in the future sustainable energy mix. He noted that the EU and UK have been leading global efforts in developing wave and tidal energy technology, and SKF Marine’s team has worked on creating reliable and intelligent rotating equipment for such projects. Johannsmann expressed excitement for advancing the industrialisation of tidal energy alongside Proteus and GE Vernova.
Drew Blaxland, CEO of Proteus Marine Renewables, highlighted the strategic importance of their collaboration with SKF and GE Vernova. This partnership will allow them to deliver comprehensive power systems for large-scale tidal turbines, offering a sustainable solution. He also pointed out that MeyGen’s commitment to proceed towards a £200m+ EPC contract reflects confidence in the collaboration’s potential. Blaxland added that this contract will also enable job creation and investment in manufacturing in Scotland.
Graham Reid, CEO of Simec Atlantis Energy, expressed enthusiasm about this collaboration for MeyGen. As the world’s largest tidal stream site, MeyGen has set industry records, and Reid believes this alliance will further support tidal energy investment, creating jobs and unlocking new opportunities for the sector in Scotland.
This MoU marks a significant step in advancing tidal energy as a viable component of sustainable energy systems, harnessing the collective expertise of SKF, Proteus Marine Renewables, and GE Vernova for Scotland’s pioneering tidal project.
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.
