Simec Atlantis has registered the planned next phase of its MeyGen tidal array off northern Scotland for the UK’s 2019 Contract for Difference programme and is currently assessing bidding strategies.
The company said it is also exploring options to set up private wire power purchase agreements with local companies to facilitie the build out of the array, which has a lease to install up to 398MW.
Atlantis chief executive Tim Cornelius said: “The MeyGen team is currently working on several initiatives to increase the installed capacity of the project so we can exploit fully the 398MW seabed lease.
“Full build out would represent a capacity which is 50% higher than Dounreay, the largest nuclear station in the Highlands of Scotland.”
Simec Atlantis said phase 1A of the MeyGen project has exported 17.5 gigawatt-hours of electricity, including 7GWh hours alone this year.
It added that total system availability is approaching 90% for 2019, with almost 98% achieved in the second quarter of the year.
Cornelius said: “We are delighted to report the continued strong performance of the turbines at MeyGen.
“Uninterrupted production generates large volumes of valuable performance data which can be used to improve performance, optimise future system design and provide confidence to project financiers who will be called upon to fund our plans to expand this world-renowned project.
“Future phases will use the new AR2000 turbine we are proudly developing with GE and our new subsea hub which will further reduce costs and enhance efficiency.”