Orbital Marine confirmed as tech partner for potential US deployment

The collaboration with OPALCO represents a significant opportunity

Orbital Marine Power, the Scottish company renowned for its floating tidal stream turbine technology, has announced its forthcoming venture into US waters, having secured a partnership with Orcas Power & Light Cooperative (OPALCO) for a proposed site in Washington State. This development follows the US Department of Energy's selection of two marine energy projects for USD 6 million (EUR 5.5 million) in funding aimed at advancing tidal energy research, development, and demonstration. Upon completion of an initial phase, one of the projects will receive funding to proceed with full-scale development. Should OPALCO be chosen, it plans to deploy an orbital O2 floating tidal energy turbine in Rosario Strait within the San Juan Islands to generate local power.

Orbital Marine Power and OPALCO had previously signed a memorandum of understanding in 2021. Andrew Scott, CEO of Orbital Marine Power, expressed optimism regarding OPALCO's progress in securing vital funding, emphasizing their commitment to utilizing Orbital technology for their proposals. Scott added that while further groundwork is required before the technology is deployed in US waters, this milestone underscores the increasing global interest in the pioneering advancements within the floating tidal stream sector. The collaboration with OPALCO represents a significant opportunity for Orbital Marine Power to showcase its innovative technology on an international scale, reinforcing its position as a leader in sustainable energy solutions.