Scottish Companies Ocean Kinetics and Green Marine Complete Decommissioning of OpenHydro’s Tidal Energy Platform at EMEC
Two Scottish companies, Ocean Kinetics and Green Marine, have successfully completed the decommissioning of OpenHydro’s tidal energy platform at the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) in Orkney. This project was managed under a contract with EMEC and involved dismantling the platform’s steel superstructure and pile foundations.
In April, Ocean Kinetics and Green Marine formed a joint venture to handle the project, combining their expertise in operational engineering, cutting, and heavy-lift operations. The team utilized Ocean Kinetics’ divers, welders, and ROV services alongside Green Marine’s vessel, mooring, and cable expertise.
Key operations included the removal of two 18-ton steel piles grouted into the seabed. Reversed Diamond Wire Cutters were deployed to cut the piles flush with the seabed, aiming to restore the area to its original condition. The teams also completed cable disconnection and termination as part of the decommissioning effort.
Green Marine’s Operations Manager, Terry Norquay, expressed satisfaction with the project’s successful completion, highlighting the significant planning required for the complex operations involved.
Ocean Kinetics Marine Projects Manager, Roger Goudie, emphasized the joint capabilities of Ocean Kinetics and Green Marine in delivering full EPCI contracts, showcasing their experience, reliability, and cost efficiency in marine operations.
OpenHydro was the first developer to utilize the tidal test site at the Fall of Warness, where the platform stood for 18 years before its decommissioning. EMEC’s Managing Director, Neil Kermode, praised the local companies for fulfilling the decommissioning requirements and highlighted the valuable insights gained from the project for the tidal energy industry.
The OpenHydro tidal turbine was a pioneering project in Scotland, contributing to the development of tidal energy technology until its liquidation in 2018. The completion of the decommissioning process marks a significant milestone in the evolution of marine energy testing and demonstration activities.
In July, the Scottish duo announced the successful completion of the first phase of decommissioning of the tidal energy platform in the Orkney Islands.