Scottish tidal energy developer Nova Innovation has scooped the EU’s Enterprise Europe Network Award 2018, which was announced in Vienna today.
The prize was awarded for the development and expansion of the company’s offshore tidal array in Bluemull Sound in Shetland.
Nova was selected by the three judges from a shortlist of finalists including Turkey’s Gokmen Machinery, BHZ Agromat from Poland, Spain’s Wellness Telecom and Dutch outfit Heliox.
Nova Innovation chief executive Simon Forrest said: “It’s wonderful to receive this prestigious award and it is testament to the hard work and exceptional calibre of the teams involved.
“We must give a special thank you to Scottish Enterprise’s Enterprise Europe Network team who helped Nova build a partnership with IDETA of Belgium and other organisations across Europe.
“That pan-European collaboration has accelerated our growth and enabled us to deliver these world-leading projects.
“Tidal energy is the next big global renewable resource to come to market. It has the huge advantage of being highly predictable. The tidal energy sector also has enormous potential to provide jobs, boost economic growth in coastal regions and drive exports.”
The award marked the 10th anniversary of the Enterprise Europe Network, which brings together around 600 business support organisations from more than 60 countries to help European businesses innovate and grow internationally.
Enterprise Europe Network Scotland’s Jane Watters said: “It’s been a career high to work with such a driven company. We’ve developed a long-term relationship with Nova Innovation which has led to a greater understanding of what the business needs.
“I’m delighted that the company has been recognised today and look forward to continuing to support this great company grow and realise their ambitions.”