Intertek Energy and Water has become an industrial partner on a three-year tidal stream research project.
Inertek was invited to join the project which will also involve a number of international partners led by Cardiff University, under which various tidal stream turbine array configurations will be examined for layout optimization.
Also, the project will seek to develop operational procedures to mitigate the impacts of extreme loading patterns.
Intertek said its research experts will employ both experimental and numerical analyses to ensure that the results and findings are transferable to real-life applications.
Paul Evans , Intertek Energy and Water expert, said: “This project has real potential to move the UK’s tidal energy industry forward from its current early-stage status to a future where full-scale, grid-connected arrays form a key part of the UK’s energy mix.”
Professor Tim O’Doherty , Principal Investigator on the project, added: “Given the current status of tidal stream turbine technology, it is vitally important to have a commercial presence to help understand the industry’s requirements. It is also crucial that collaborative research is undertaken into device development and the environmental impact of deploying arrays of tidal turbines.”
The project, based in Wales, is expected to provide information to developers to help safeguard tidal turbine arrays from being damaged by currents, waves or wind, while at the same time, delivering the lowest cost of energy.
Intertek Energy and Water provides consulting services for power transmission, renewable energy, oil and gas, water, and ports and harbours.