The Ottawa Local Network were pleased to present an online Tech Talk from Mr Pieter Goubert of Nova Innovation Ltd, a UK based company who are one of the leaders in tidal energy.Mr Goubert gave a lively and interesting talk on the history and key challenges of tidal energy solutions, as well as an overview of Nova Innovations experience from installing several tidal energy solutions mainly around the Shetland Isles in Scotland. These installations include a system integrated with energy storage to provide ‘firm power’ to the grid. Tidal energy is particularly suited to pairing with energy storage due to the predictability of the tides. Nova Innovation have worked hard to develop innovative solutions to improve performance, efficiency and Operations & Maintenance costs which Mr Goubert outlined to the interested audience.
Nova Innovation is now working in Canada to develop a 1.5MW, 15 machine array in Petit Passage, Nova Scotia. Mr Goubert outlined the energy potential in the area and also talked around the permitting and installation challenges ahead of them.
The Ottawa LN would like to thank Mr Goubert for his time, and the lively discussion after the event proved the talk was well received. The following link demonstrates some of the market opportunities and technical challenges Nova Innovation are involved in, along with European funded collaborations to develop knowledge in tidal energy solutions. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rE6bwld6J6I