Marine renewables firm Atlantis Resources said today that it would join forces with Natural Energy Wyre (NEW) to develop a tidal project off Lancashire.
The Edinburgh-based firm said its new division, Atlantis Energy, intended to serve the wider water-based renewable-energy sector, would enter into the partnership with NEW.
Atlantis Resources is best known for being the driving force behind the MeyGen, the world’s largest tidal energy scheme based in the Pentland Firth.
The Wyre project, which has been under development for several years, comprises a tidal power plant capable of producing up to 400GWh of power each year.
Wyre, which will be built between Fleetwood and Knott’s End, is unique in that it mimics actual tidal cycles, which should translate into minimal environmental disruption.
Atlantis chief executive Tim Cornelius said: “The Wyre project is an opportunity to develop an extremely cost effective tidal range project which represents excellent value for the consumer.
“The geography of the Wyre means that only a relatively small impoundment is required for the power output produced.
“This makes Wyre a very cost effective way to test the concepts of tidal range power; its location also offers the chance to offer multiple benefits to the local community and surrounding area through economic stimulus and habitat preservation.”
Bob Long, managing director at Preston-based NEW, said: “I am delighted by the involvement of Atlantis in this important project. They have a proven track record of tidal development and an excellent team which can now move this project forward with real pace.
“I am passionate about the Wyre project and am committed to seeing it delivered for the greater economic good of the region.”
Mr Long has spearheaded the Wyre project, whose design has been a collaboration of leading energy sector companies including Mott Macdonald, BAM Nuttall, Arcadis and Andritz Hydro.
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