New technology could see vehicles fuelled by tidal power

Nova Innovation has created the first-ever electric vehicle (EV) charge point where drivers can ‘fill up’ directly with energy from the sea. 

The EV charge point is located at Cullivoe harbour on the island of Yell in Shetland, where Nova’s tidal turbines have been powering homes and businesses for more than five years.

The Nova project has received grant funding through Transport Scotland to install the EV charging infrastructure as part of the clean energy transition.

Simon Forrest, CEO of Nova Innovation, said: ‘Our technology generates electricity from the immense power of the seas, and it is changing the way we power our lives – from how we make a cup of tea to how we travel.

‘We now have the reality of tidal powered cars, which demonstrates the huge steps forward we are making in tackling the climate emergency and achieving net-zero by working in harmony with our natural environment.

‘In November, the eyes of the world will be on Scotland as nations come together to combat climate change at COP26. At Nova, we deliver blue energy solutions that can be deployed all around the world, delivering clean, predictable energy direct from the sea to our clients to meet whatever energy needs they have — electricity, heat or transport.’

Michael Matheson, Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity, added: ‘It’s fantastic to see that Nova Innovation is demonstrating yet again that Scotland remains at the forefront of developments in zero-emission transport solutions. I’m pleased that Scottish Government funding is enabling the installation of a new charge point in Shetland which operates entirely on renewable tidal energy.

‘This type of innovation is key in responding to the global climate emergency and highlights the opportunities that can be realised here in Scotland as we transition to a net-zero economy.’