The Andritz Hydro Hammerfest turbine is capable of generating 1.5MW of power when the water speed reaches just over three meters per second, or around six knots of flow.
Operation at full power is significant as a de-risking event for the industry, proving the power curve models for the financial assumptions of the project.
MeyGen project director David Taaffe said: “It is extremely satisfying to see all of the meticulous planning and preparation come to life and be validated in the field. Andritz has done a wonderful job in commissioning this system, drawing on many years of operational experience.
“This will be one of many milestones to come as we now build on this successful start and continue to roll out the world’s largest tidal power array. It is an important day for my entire team and all of our contractors.”
In November the project celebrated producing first power as the first 1.5MW turbine was installed successfully and plugged into the pre-laid cable which connects to the onshore control centre and grid export point.