This chart does show maximum velocities rather than the rmc (root mean cubed) averages that would give a better indication of overall energy yield. (the energy output is dependent on the cube of the velocity)

But apart from that technicality, the red shows the areas of highest potential and it is thought that there could be between 400MW and 1GW of exploitable tidal energy in the area. In that context, the 10MW Sound of Islay Tidal Project is a demonstrator to show that the technology and installation procedures are commercially viable.

Hope this helps,

Andy

How should I read this? Does this mean there is a multiple of potential of what’s available in the Sound of Islay waiting to be explored off Portnahaven? Or is the top speed (as shown in red) of limited relevance, e.g if it only occurs for a short time? Are the green bits further north more relevant as the tide may be runs steadier?

Andy

We’d be interested in as many views as possible, so feel free to fill in the form and circulate to a wider audience.

There is a question asking where you live so we will be able to compare the views of residents from other interested people.

Thanks for the interest,

Andy

Same goes for the advice around social tariffs and the importance of checking whether prepayment is indeed the best option for your needs.

Would also add that the headline price quoted isn’t everything when shopping around and consumers can increasingly opt for ‘green’ tariffs and/or benefit from cashback deals.

The offshore wind farms are in the early stages of development with SSE being the developer for the Kintyre array. As much information as we have managed to gather is available in the ARC Scoping document which is available from the IET website.

ARC is working to maximise the positive impacts and minimise the negative impacts of the three Argyll offshore schemes.

Let me know if you have any more questions.

All the best,

Andy Macdonald
Islay Energy Trust