A tidal power turbine, which is claimed to be the world’s first community-owned technology of its kind, has started generating electricity.
Located in Scotland, the Nova-30 turbine will power up to 30 homes, an industrial estate and a locally-owned ice plant in Shetland.
The turbine sits on the seabed at a depth of more than 100 feet and consists of a propeller that spins with the help of the power of the tide. The rotating propeller drives a generator that produces electricity which is transmitted onshore via a one kilometre subsea cable.
Scottish Energy Minister Fergus Ewing said: “For the first time, anywhere in the world, a community-owned tidal turbine is generating electricity. It will have a positive impact on the North Yell community and economy.”
The project was developed by tidal energy company Nova Innovation in partnership with North Yell Development Council.