Largest marine wind turbine could produce cheap energy prices - 02/12/2009
Homeowners keen to switch energy sources could be pleased to hear that the world's biggest marine wind turbine is set to be constructed and tested in the UK.
The AK-1000 is the height of a five-storey building with a blade diameter of 18m and has been designed by manufacturer Atlantic Resources Corporation.
It will be built and tested in the Orkneys and in the process could stimulate the local economy with the creation of more than 100 jobs, while the testing process itself will last two years and cost £15 million.
Mike Smith, chief operating officer of Atlantis, said: "By trialling at EMEC (European Marine Energy Centre), we will ensure that the AK-1000 is ideally suited for use in UK waters and is visible to the UK supply chain."
The government recently announced plans to increase the number of offshore wind farms being built around the UK's coastline as pressure builds to safeguard Britain's energy future and reduce the national carbon footprint.
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