Proteus Marine Renewables (PMR) has signed a memorandum of understanding with SKF and GE Vernova's Power Conversion division, outlining a potential alliance to provide tidal turbine generation systems. This partnership aims to support multi-megawatt tidal stream projects, with a specific focus on delivering at least 59 megawatts (MW) to MeyGen, the world's largest tidal stream facility located in Scotland.
Under the proposed collaboration, SKF Marine would supply rotating equipment for the tidal generation systems, including the main powertrain, integration, and assembly. PMR would contribute system design, installation, commissioning, and offshore services, while GE Vernova would focus on the electrical systems needed to connect the generators to the grid.
SKF Marine Managing Director Martin Johannsmann highlighted the significance of the project for sustainable energy. “We believe that Ocean Energy will play a crucial role in the required future sustainable energy mix,” Johannsmann said, noting SKF's longstanding involvement in wave and tidal energy development. He expressed enthusiasm for advancing tidal energy's industrialization with partners PMR and GE Vernova.
PMR CEO Drew Blaxland underscored the alliance's impact on tidal energy commercialization, stating, “Together, we have the capacity to deliver complete power systems using what will be the world's largest tidal turbines.” Blaxland noted that MeyGen's commitment to a potential £200 million engineering, procurement, and construction contract reflects confidence in the alliance's capability to execute large-scale tidal energy projects.
The collaboration aims to drive forward the global development of ocean energy, with Scotland's MeyGen project at the forefront of sustainable tidal energy advancements.
