Singapore-based Envirotek has deployed SCHOTTEL Instream Turbine (SIT) at Sentoas Broadwalk in Singapore to study the viability of tidal energy in the Southeast Asian region.

Study of tidal energy can be helpful in building up energy resilience, while decreasing the dependence on fossil-fuel.

The study can help in unlocking the potential for tidal in-stream energy (TISE) to generate and supply clean, renewable and safe electricity to the island.

For the project, Envirotek has deployed a SIT 250 turbine, a 62kW generator with a rotor diameter of 4m. The machine has been designed to be robust and cost effective, as per Envirotek’s claims.

According to the turbine-maker Schottel Hydro, floating systems using tidal energy as it can reduce not only installation cost but also maintenance cost.

The machine has been attached to a catamaran platform with a lifting frame that allows the turbine to be easily raised from and into the water. Local shipping company, Lita Ocean was given the contract to build the catamaran and integrate the SIT 250 turbine unto the platform.

The tidal generator’s installation took place as a joint effort between Lita Ocean, OceanPixel, Aquatera, Nanyang Technological University Singapore (NTU) and Orcades Marine.

Envirotek chairman and founder Jefferson Cheng said: "This demonstration is about using appropriate technologies in suitable locations to address real energy needs of South East Asia. We are keen to develop projects that involve marine renewable energy — a resource that is yet to be tapped effectively in the region."

OceanPixel managing director Michael Lochinvar Sim Abundo said: "There is tremendous potential for harnessing ocean/marine renewable energy in the region especially for archipelagic countries like Indonesia and the Philippines.

“We are looking at marine renewable energy to be part of the energy mix — not just in off-grid areas but eventually to feed into micro-grids and the main grid."

Aquatera managing director Gareth Davies said: "One of the key aspects we're looking at here is how to learn to install technology in the SEA situation.

“We need to learn techniques and use equipment that is appropriate to South East Asia. In doing so, we can bring ideas from Europe and the tried and tested techniques but then adapt them to the South East Asian condition."

Image: Envirotek deploys tidal energy pilot project in Singapore. Photo: Courtesy of ENVIROTEK.