Tidal energy company Nova Innovation have announced that vehicles in Shetland are now fuelled by the power of the sea, thanks to the creation of the first ever electric vehicle charge point powered directly from a tidal energy source.
The EV charge point is located on the scenic shores of Bluemull Sound, at Cullivoe harbour on the island of Yell in Shetland. Beneath the water, Nova’s tidal turbines have been powering homes and businesses in Shetland for more than five years. The island’s vehicles can now be powered purely by the tide.
Simon Forrest, CEO of Nova Innovation, said, “Our technology generates electricity from the immense power of the seas, and it is changing the way we power our lives – from how we make a cup of tea to how we travel. We now have the reality of tidal powered cars, which demonstrates the huge steps forward we are making in tackling the climate emergency and achieving net zero by working in harmony with our natural environment.
“In November, the eyes of the world will be on Scotland as nations come together to combat climate change at COP26. At Nova, we deliver blue energy solutions that can be deployed all around the world, delivering clean, predictable energy direct from the sea to our clients to meet whatever energy needs they have – electricity, heat or transport.”
The Nova project has received grant funding through Transport Scotland to install the EV charging infrastructure as part of the clean energy transition.
Michael Matheson, Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity, said, “It’s fantastic to see that Nova Innovation is demonstrating yet again that Scotland remains at the forefront of developments in zero-emission transport solutions. I’m pleased that Scottish Government funding is enabling the installation of a new charge point in Shetland which operates entirely on renewable tidal energy.
“This type of innovation is key in responding to the global climate emergency and highlights the opportunities that can be realised here in Scotland as we transition to a net-zero economy.”
(Picture – Nova Innovation)
