Minesto remains on schedule for Faroe Islands tidal energy array

Swedish marine energy developer Minesto has informed that the buildout of the world’s first tidal energy kite array in Hestfjord strait is progressing according to plan.

The total planned capacity of the array is about 30MW, including 24 kite systems at 1.2MW each.

The annual yield of the site is estimated to be 84GWh, which is equivalent of 20% of the total Faroese energy consumption in 2021.

The assessment work undertaken covers all aspects of the site development, including environmental assessment studies, and the infield cable routing and grid connection works. The focus ahead is to finalize the installation configuration of the first four kites forming the first 5MW phase, as well as securing onshore service assets. 

Martin Edlund, CEO of Minesto, said: “We are pleased with the progress of the Hestfjord site development project. The local conditions are highly favorable for a first-of-a-kind installation and has the potential to contribute to a substantial part of Torshavn’s energy supply.”

The site development project is a collaboration between tidal energy technology developer Minesto, utility company SEV and Faroe Islands governmental authorities. In addition, the University of Faroe Islands has contributed to the initial site assessment work.

According to the company, an important upgrade of the distribution grid to capital city Torshavn, located 10 kilometers away, is being undertaken by Minesto’s partner SEV.

“Having one of the most ambitious national schemes for green transition, we are planning several vital infrastructure investments, including the grid connection point for the tidal array buildout,” said Terji Nielsen, head of R&D at SEV.

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