Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all
Based in Scotland, Orbital Marine Power is a visionary renewable energy company deploying pioneering floating turbine technology to generate predictable, reliable power from tidal streams and ocean currents every day, regardless of the weather.
The company’s O2, the world’s most powerful and advanced tidal turbine, commenced power generation in July 2021 in Orkney. The 74m floating superstructure supports two 1MW turbines, delivering a rated 2MW power output at a current speed of 2.5m/s. It can provide utility-scale, clean energy while supporting a just transition through the creation of sustainable, quality jobs across the project lifecycle.
Orbital’s technology has two major benefits. The floating design eases installation and access for maintenance, representing a breakthrough in cost and risk reduction. Furthermore, it captures the strongest tidal and river currents close to the surface, guaranteeing higher energy yield than seabed-based systems. This innovative approach offers lower manufacturing and installation costs, alongside quick, cost-effective servicing of major turbine components.
Further innovation is being delivered through a portfolio of EU- and UKRI-funded projects. MAXBlade is delivering a suite of blade and rotor innovations to enhance reliability, scale, maintenance and recyclability, and support volume manufacturing. The single, biggest innovation will increase rotor diameter from 20m to 26m. FORWARD‑2030 is developing the next‑generation O2‑X platform, advancing key components to enhance performance and support array integration with the grid and battery systems. Building on these innovations, EURO‑TIDES will demonstrate a multi-turbine pilot farm, driving cost reductions to accelerate the commercial deployment of the O2 series and bring predictable tidal energy to market.
Orbital has built a reputation as a pioneering, disruptive clean energy company with proven technology capable of harnessing tidal resources along coasts from Orkney to the Isle of Wight, while sourcing materials and manufacturing domestically. The company is focused on contributing to the wider decarbonization of energy, supporting pathways for a just transition, and creating opportunities for sustainable job growth. A key motivation lies in empowering talented engineers and technicians to design, build, and operate tidal technology, helping to shape a cleaner, more resilient future for communities across the UK.
Orbital’s pioneering tidal energy projects support SDG 7 by helping to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all. Not only is Orbital pioneering a new, largely untapped natural clean energy resource, it is also inspiring the next generation to join an industry that has immense potential.
As global efforts to reduce carbon emissions intensify, demand for low-carbon energy continues to rise and markets are recognizing the value of investing in a more robust and resilient energy mix. Tidal energy strengthens the energy system by providing predictable power that complements more intermittent renewables such as wind and solar, contributing to a steadier and more reliable clean energy system.
Orbital’s approach represents an opportunity to establish leadership in the transition to a resilient, net‑zero energy system. Orbital is launching its commercial growth trajectory into a more than 100GW global market through the delivery of its first build-ready, multi-MW tidal projects, positioning the company at the forefront of scalable, predictable tidal energy deployment.
The Orbital O2 can power one UK home for a day in 15 seconds of operation.
