Update on Progress with Tidal Turbines

We have just returned from visiting the Norwegian Tidal Turbine Developers (www.wpi.no) and made progress in discussions with them about deploying their vertical axis turbine in Morecambe Bay. They have had a turbine tested in the Pikerfoss River in Norway and are adapting it for the Tinfos. It will need further development for use in a tidal setting. Tidal energy is very much in its infancy and although we would prefer to buy a turbine "off the shelf" it is unlikely that this will be possible. The Norwegian company are committed to the turbine being manufactured in the NW England so we are also progressing how this could best be done. WPI are also involved in a collaborative EU CRAFT Project which is researching the optimal foil design and the self-optimising pitch control. Vertical axis turbines are not new technology but using 21st century materials and controls enables a step change in performance.