MeyGen project has been connected to the 33 kV Ness of Quoys distribution network following the installation of one of the longest underground 33 kV power export cables in the UK by the network operator, Scottish Hydro Electric Power Distribution (SHEPD).
The connection complies with the National Grid Code required over £1 million investment to be made pre financial close of Phase 1A, along with over 25 km of distribution network upgrades, and infrastructure upgrades at two substations, Atlantis informed.
The first tidal turbines will be installed over the coming months and, according to Atlantis, the project remains on track to deliver first power in the second half of 2016.
Tim Cornelius , CEO of Atlantis, said: “The connection of our flagship MeyGen project to the SHEPD distribution network marks a huge technical major milestone for Atlantis and the tidal stream industry more broadly.
“It has involved years of hard work, persistence, perseverance and determination by our team and all of the contractors and consultants involved in the onshore work scope. We believe this is now the world’s largest energised grid connection of any commercial tidal stream array.”
Cornelius also added the company made good progress over recent months at MeyGen on turbine and foundation preparation.
Once fully built, the 400 MW MeyGen project is expected to generate enough predictable and emissions free electricity to power 175,000 Scottish homes. [mappress mapid=”880″]