New energy projects flag up £10m chance

Three new wave energy projects have been leased for development in Scottish waters.

A 30 megawatt project by Aquamarine Power north of Lewis is earmarked to enter the 10 million Saltire Prize, which aims to accelerate the commercial development of marine energy. Aquamarine Power, which is behind the Oyster Wave energy converter, has also secured a 10 MW demonstration lease for a site off north-west Lewis.

A 10 MW demonstration project under development by Vattenfall and Pelamis Wave Power west of Shetland has also been leased. Secretary for finance and sustainable growth John Swinney said: "The Saltire Prize, our 10m challenge to the world, is pushing back the boundaries of marine energy innovation and attracting interest from around the world to accelerate commercial development of wave and tidal energy."