AWS set for global lead in wave energy
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A DEAL between SSE Renewables and French company Alstom is set to provide an Inverness firm with the millions of pounds needed to make it a world leader in wave energy generation.
The two power giants last week signed a joint venture agreement to develop the Costa Head wave farm off Orkney, using up to 80 AWS III devices produced by AWS Ocean Energy of Inverness, in which Alstom has a 40 per cent stake.
AWS’ chief executive Simon Grey believes the move will now secure the £20 million required by his firm to build a full size prototype and begin testing in 2014, a key stage on the way to full production.
“This takes us from being a research and development company to having a customer wanting to use our expertise and ability — it is quite momentous,” Mr Grey said. “Having the potential of this order means they (Alstom) are that much keener to fund us to produce the design and innovation. Off the back of this we expect the £20 million programme to be justified.”
The first step is to start component testing this year and prepare tenders for the building of a prototype, work which could mean an economic boost for other Highland businesses.
“We expect the job to be done in one of the large fabrication yards,” said Mr Grey. “Obviously Nigg is a strategic location but there are others that can do this sort of work. That said, a reason for being in Inverness is because we are close to fabrication facilities and ideally we would like to see the work done in the Highlands.”
Since Alstom’s investment last June, AWS has increased its workforce from 14 to 27 and is currently advertising for a naval architect and an electrical engineer, with further appointments expected in the coming months. The company has also moved from Henderson Road into larger premises in Seafield Road.
Mr Grey confirmed the French firm’s backing has been vital. “We do the smart invention stuff but can only go so far. Alstom is big and already has a relationship with SSE so it is able to go along and negotiate this kind of agreement.”
“We are fortunate to be chosen, but it’s also because we have worked very hard over the years. As they say, the harder you work the better luck you have.”
The Costa Head project involves a wave farm of up to 200 megawatts being located five kilometres off the north coast of Orkney mainland. It could be the world’s largest and the aim is to begin generating electricity in 2020.
