Wave energy developer Aquamarine Power this week started work on its second Oyster wave energy project at the European Marine Energy Centre’s (EMEC) Billia Croo test site, near Stromness.
Work is being carried out by local construction company Heddle Construction. Onshore works commenced on Monday 11 October in preparation for installation of the second Oyster wave energy device in 2011.
The installation of Aquamarine Power’s Oyster 1 device, which was switched on by Scotland’s First Minister in November 2009, generated over £1.5 million expenditure in the Orkney economy. The installation of Oyster 1, which took place at Billia Croo near Stromness, involved more than 30 local companies ranging from engineering and construction contractors to environmental consultancies, diving and vessel hire, events organisers and photographers.
Martin McAdam, Chief Executive Officer of Aquamarine Power said:
“This is a very important time for the marine energy industry and Orkney is right at the centre of this exciting new industry.
“The people of Orkney have been incredibly welcoming to us since we began developing our first Oyster project at EMEC and we are looking forward to working with the local community on our Oyster 2 project.
“Aquamarine Power’s actual expenditure on local contractors and suppliers on our Oyster 1 project came to over £1.5 million. On our Oyster 2 project that will be significantly more and will represent a significant boost to the local economy.”