Clean, Predictable Energy
Orbital are now setting its sights on commercialising its technology through the deployment of multi-MW arrays. Supporting this endeavour in UK waters would bring substantial benefits beyond complimenting the clean energy transition, as evidenced in the build of the O2; where around 80% of the turbine was delivered by UK suppliers and operation will bring long term employment to coastal communities. As a product of commercialisation, costs are projected to fall steeply from roll-out of the technology, as previously demonstrated with wind and solar energy.
How the Technology Works
Orbital Marine Power’s O2, the world’s most powerful tidal turbine, commenced grid connected power generation at the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) in Orkney in July, 2021. The innovative, floating turbine is anchored in the Fall of Warness where a subsea cable connects the 2MW offshore unit to the local onshore electricity network.
Orbital’s unique floating platform is moored via anchors in powerful tidal stream or river currents. Underwater rotors capture the dense flowing energy.
Manufactured and launched in Dundee earlier in the year before being towed up to Orkney, the O2 is Orbital’s first commercial turbine and represents the culmination of more than 15 years of world leading product development in the UK. The 74m long turbine is expected to operate in the waters off Orkney for the next 15 years with the capacity to meet the annual electricity demand of around 2,000 UK homes with clean, predictable power from the fast-flowing waters. In a further ground-breaking element of the project, the O2 is to provide power to EMEC’s onshore electrolyser to generate green hydrogen that will be used to demonstrate decarbonisation of wider energy requirements.
Check out the videos showcasing the launch and story of the Orbital Marine 02 to find out more about the mission and technology involved.
Why You Should Join Orbital Marine Power Today
Orbital is a pioneering company where new ground is broken on a daily basis – innovation and problem solving within a dynamic team are an integral part of our culture, whilst professionalism and precision are required to deliver our vision. The Orbital team approach this with a supportive, friendly and trusting environment where all employees are recognised for the value they add to the exciting journey the company is on.
Current working benefits offered to Orbital staff include: Company Pension Scheme, Private Medical Insurance (including Digital GP, dental and optical benefit), Life Assurance Scheme, Income Protection Scheme (for medium to long term sick), Personal Accident/Illness Cover, Employee Assistance programmes, Option for flexible working (office/home working with flexibility around core hours), 30 days paid holiday entitlement (inclusive of any public/bank holidays), Cycle to Work Scheme
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