ExoTechnologies, a leader in maritime green technologies, has achieved a significant milestone by delivering a fully recyclable, high-performance workboat to Orbital Marine Power, a developer of pioneering tidal turbine technology. Constructed at the Ultimate Boats yard in Glasgow, this vessel is made from ExoTechnologies’ innovative DANUTM composite material and is designed to support Orbital’s O2 turbine— the world’s most powerful tidal turbine located off the coast of Orkney.
The O2 turbine is a key component of Orbital Marine Power’s strategy to harness tidal energy, marking over 15 years of development and testing in Orkney. The workboat itself is an 11-meter O-class Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat (RIB), equipped to manage the demanding maritime conditions of Orkney, featuring a wheelhouse, shock mitigation units, and an impressive operating range of 450 nautical miles. Its design incorporates ExoHullTM technology, conceptualised by John Moxham, who applied aerodynamic principles from the XB-70 Valkyrie supersonic bomber to enhance hydrodynamic performance, stability, and fuel efficiency.
Shane Mugan, CEO of ExoTechnologies, expressed pride in supporting Orbital Marine Power’s efforts in green energy, noting that the deployment of DANUTM technology represents a critical step towards mitigating the environmental impact of traditional boat building materials like fiberglass. This technology not only supports the circular economy but also aligns with the broader environmental goals of reducing landfill waste and promoting renewable energy sources.
Orbital’s O2 turbine stands as a testament to the potential of tidal energy, with capabilities to power approximately 2,000 UK homes and significantly reduce CO2 emissions annually. ExoTechnologies’ commitment to innovation and sustainability is evident in their ongoing development of high-performance vessels that meet the needs of commercial and leisure operators, promising a future where marine activities contribute positively to environmental conservation.
This partnership between ExoTechnologies and Orbital Marine Power highlights the growing trend towards integrating sustainable practices in the maritime industry, aiming to transform traditional operations into eco-friendly solutions.
