Cornwall marine energy project in running for prestigious local award

A pioneering project to create a new marine energy test site at Falmouth in which the University renewable energy team is a founding partner, is in the running for a green award.

Falmouth Harbour Commissioners's (FHC) FabTest test site is shortlisted in the best business innovation category for the Regen South West Green Energy Awards.

The nomination was for the site, which gives marine energy developers the chance to test devices in a prelicensed and consented area of near-shore environment .

The awards celebrate renewable energy achievements and an independent panel of judges will pick winners in six categories, to be announced on November 20.

Falmouth harbour master Captain Mark Sansom said: "It is fantastic to be recognised for all the hard work that has gone into making the FabTest site a reality.It will play an important role in maintaining the South West's position as the leading UK region for marine renewables, as it allows essential technology testing to be carried out in sheltered waters, close to port."

The project originated as a partnership between FHC, Wave Hub, the University of Exeter, A&P Group, Cornwall Marine Network and Mojo Maritime.

In April 2012, FabTest welcomed the first wave device to be installed for testing. Fred Olsen's BOLT "Lifesaver" wave energy converter is being tested at the site, before potentially being deployed at the Wave Hub site.

Date: 17 October 2012