Source: SKF

According to Introspective Market Research, the global tidal power market, valued at $1.3 billion in 2023, is forecast to grow to around $8.1 billion over the next seven years.

Scotland’s MeyGen Project Expands

SKF has partnered with Proteus Marine Renewables to supply technology for MeyGen, the world's largest tidal stream system. MeyGen, operated by SAE Renewables, is located in Scotland's Pentland Firth.

SKF reports that its systems have operated continuously for more than six years at 1.5 MW without unscheduled or disruptive maintenance. The company is now helping to expand MeyGen's existing 6 MW test fleet by at least 59 MW, supporting the development of marine renewable energy.

Predictability and Reliability

Tidal energy is one of the most predictable renewable energy sources, complementing solar and wind power. However, a major challenge for the sector has been designing turbines that can operate reliably underwater for long periods of time. Since 2018, systems supported by SKF have demonstrated the long-term reliability required to meet this demand.

Source: SKF

For more than a decade, SKF has been involved in the specification, development, and supply of bearings and seals for all major turbine mechanisms, including main rotor bearings, the yaw mechanism, and the pitch system. These technologies enable turbines to withstand demanding subsea conditions.

"We need suppliers who understand the requirements of the underwater environment, as the consequences of failure of key components are severe. SKF has played a significant role in Proteus' continuous improvement and risk reduction efforts, and its contribution goes far beyond the supply of individual components," said Drew Blaxland, CEO of Proteus Marine Renewables.

In the future, SKF will supply Proteus with fully integrated 3 MW power plants, providing a complete plug-and-play solution designed to streamline the company's supply chain.

From Pilot to Commercial Deployment

"For more than a decade, MeyGen has been at the forefront of the tidal energy industry and a pioneer in the design of utility-scale tidal power systems. The successful operation and performance of our existing turbines have demonstrated the reliability of this technology and its potential as a predictable source of renewable energy. We are excited to be working with Proteus Marine Renewables, with the support of SKF, as we progress from pilot project to full commercial deployment," said Fraser Johnson, O&M Manager of MeyGen’s tidal power plant.