Minesto extends tidal PPA with electric utility SEV as plans for scale-up take shape

Swedish marine energy developer Minesto has signed a two-year extension of its power purchase agreement (PPA) with the electric utility company SEV for its tidal energy site in Vestmannasund, Faroe Islands.

In addition, a site extension analysis has concluded that the current 200kW Vestmannasund site has merits for expansion to a 4MW commercial array.

Martin Edlund, CEO of Minesto, said: “It is of great importance to Minesto that our collaboration with SEV is extended and expanded. We have a mutual commitment to a continuation of the ongoing operations in Vestmannasund and to bring tidal energy at grand scale to the Faroe Islands’ grid mix. This PPA extension is a strong signal of support from SEV in our mission – we are in the Faroe Islands for the long run”.

The PPA with SEV was first signed in February 2020 and comprises up to 2.2MW installed capacity of Minesto’s ocean energy technology in the Faroe Islands.

The first phase of collaboration between Minesto and SEV, to integrate tidal energy through Minesto’s Deep Green technology in the Faroe Islands, has focused on an EU-funded project where two grid-connected DG100 systems have been installed and operated in the Vestmannasund strait.

As part of the final delivery of that project, a site extension analysis has shown that the Vestmannasund site has merits for a commercially viable smaller array of up to 4MW.

“In addition to the proposed larger 10+20MW site in Hestfjord, where we have completed site measurements and work to optimise array design configuration, the same analysis of the Vestmannasund site shows more favourable conditions for upscaling than previously known.

“This strengthens our project portfolio with another commercial opportunity for an early – or even first – array build out of Minesto Deep Green systems. Combining that opportunity with the current DG100 site in Vestmannasund is a very compelling path forward to drive down cost of energy for our unique product”, Edlund concluded.