Details of a ground breaking wave project which could supply electricity to homes on the Isle of Lewis, using the power of the Atlantic are to go on show at the end of the month.
The Siadar Wave Energy Project, a collaboration between npower renewables and the Inverness based technology company Wavegen, would be housed within a new breakwater, similar in appearance to those around much of the UK's coastline.
The wave power station would be built into the structure and when fully operational would harness power from the Atlantic waves to generate up to 4 megawatts of electricity.
The power produced could supply the annual electricity needs of some 1500 homes - equal to a fifth of all the homes on Lewis and Harris.
The technology being used is called 'oscillating water column'. The movement of the waves is used to move air in and out of chambers in the breakwater. This air is passed through turbines to generate electricity.
As well as providing green electricity, the Siadar Wave Energy Project could provide some shelter and act as a fair weather harbour facility for commercial and leisure craft, fitting in well with the Siadar Pier Group and its desire to improve marine access in the area.
Plans are being unveiled at an Exhibition at Airidhantuim Primary School in Siadar, on Friday 26th October between 4.30pm and 6.30pm and on Saturday 27th October between 10am and 3pm. The Friday exhibition is followed by a public meeting and presentation by npower renewables at 7pm.
Bill Langley, npower renewables Marine Development Manager said, "This is a very exciting time as with the current drive for renewable energy everyone recognises the potential of the UK's abundant marine renewable energy sources.
"If the project gets the go ahead, it will be one of the first wave power stations generating electricity in the world. These exhibitions will give people the chance to find out more about this ground breaking scheme, to ask questions and hopefully give their backing to the project."
Contact
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Alda Forbes, PR Officer, npower renewables
T: 01738 825124
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