A Scottish environmental firm is to support a major tidal energy project in Japan.

Orkney-based Aquatera has been awarded a consultancy contract to conduct an environmental impact assessment for underwater turbines as part of a proposed tidal test site in Nagasaki.

It was confirmed by Toshiyuki Sakai, Head of the Nagasaki Marine Industry Cluster Promotion Association, as he met External Affairs Secretary Fiona Hyslop during a visit to Scotland House – a joint space for Scottish and Japanese marine renewables companies.

Ms Hyslop also met with representatives from the Japan Trade Development Organisation (JETRO) and the Nagasaki Marine Industry Cluster Promotion Association, which have both been instrumental in organising the collaboration.

Mr Sakai said: “Nagasaki is now in the process of setting up its marine renewable energy industry. Our industry has a lot to learn from Scottish companies who are leaders in this field.

“Through collaboration and the exchange of people and information between Nagasaki and Scotland we want to work hard together for mutual success.”