Australian-based tidal energy company MAKO Tidal Turbines (MTT) and Gladstone Ports Corporation (GPC) are about to undertake a six month tidal turbine demonstration at the Port of Gladstone.
The project will investigate how tidal energy can contribute to Australia’s energy mix.
MTT CEO, Douglas Hunt , said: “GPC is an ideal partner, with the necessary combination of vision and expertise to deploy our unique MAKO tidal turbine system in a commercial setting.
“By using existing structures at GPC’s wharves, similar to those found around the world, MAKO tidal turbines can be installed cost-effectively and in much shorter time-frames than if floating or seabed mounting systems were used.”
GPC CEO Peter O’Sullivan said it’s the first time a tidal turbine has been tested as a potential energy source in Gladstone.
“We are excited to be partnering with MAKO to demonstrate the turbine’s capabilities, particularly within a port environment.
“GPC has long recognised the potential to extract energy from the tides in Gladstone and we are pleased to now be able to investigate this further as we continue on our pathway to a sustainable future.”
According to MAKO, the tidal turbine is expected to be installed at GPC’s Barney Point Terminal within months.