Scale Model Testing

Scotrenewables Tidal Power Limited has followed a strictly incremental path of development, thoroughly testing the technology at increasing scales. This began in 2002 with a 1/16th scale model. Other versions of the device have subsequently been built and tested from 1/40th to 1/5th scale.

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The SR250 testing program is a result of extensive laboratory testing to full sea trials in Orkney waters at 1/5th scale. The design has been externally certified by Det Norske Veritas (DNV).

The 1/5th scale testing programme was conducted over 18 months, and was vitally important in preparing for full scale deployment.  Not only has it provided a wealth of data on performance and environmental impact, but it allowed us to develop procedures for safe working at sea. The practical experiences of working and operating in tidal conditions were invaluable in mitigating the risk of making very costly and damaging high-profile mistakes at full-scale. The results from this programme provided the confidence to progress to the SR250 prototype, and the same controlled and steady progression is expected to follow from the SR250 to a larger commercial demonstrator in the future.