Turbine scheme could help power 400,000 homes

A MARINE energy company is seeking permission from Scottish Government agency Marine Scotland to develop an 86-turbine power scheme in the Pentland Firth.
The application, by MeyGen, is for the installation of the tidal turbines in a deep water channel, called the Inner Sound, which lies between the north coast of Caithness and the deserted island of Stroma.
It is part of a project to eventually link up with others, that could see 400 turbines provide enough power for 400,000 homes. MeyGen has indicated that they have identified a number of harbour facilities for the 86MW project including Lyness on Holy which has been upgraded to serve as a support base for the marine energy sector. The consultation period for the offshore component close on September 7 and it is hoped that work can start next year.