Minesto’s tidal kite fit to fly full subsea trajectories

Swedish marine energy developer Minesto has completed the initial commissioning sea trials of its Deep Green tidal device off the coast of Holyhead, North West Wales.

Through the initial trials, a range of functionalities such as the kite control system, launch and recovery systems, connections and communications have been tested and verified in various sea states.

The results of the initial commissioning tests have shown that the 500kW tidal energy kite (DG500), which produces renewable energy from tidal streams and ocean currents, is ready to start ‘flying’ full subsea trajectories, according to Minesto.

David Collier, Minesto’s Chief Operating Officer, said: “This is a very significant step towards our ultimate goal of proving the complete DG500 system. The commissioning efforts have been performed in a safe and robust manner, which is especially important considering the many innovations involved in this first-of-its-kind project.”

Minesto said it will continue with the commissioning program of the DG500 device to achieve the milestones of flying full subsea trajectories and verifying the power take-off system and electricity generation.