A tidal turbine with the power to provide electricity for 500 homes has been successfully tested in Orkney.

The device, built by Andritz, was installed last December and has achieved full export power, supplying electricity for homes and businesses on the northern isle of Eday.

The 1MW power generator was installed in some of the worst weather conditions Scotland has experienced in more than a decade, and has since been undergoing a range of tests in the fast flowing tidal waters around Orkney.

A spokesman for ScottishPower said: "The initial testing period has been very positive with the device achieving full export power."

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It will become part of Scotland’s first tidal power project, planned for the Sound of Islay.

ScottishPower Renewables received planning consent for the 10MW tidal turbine array in March 2011.

CEO Keith Anderson said the tides held potential for a "significant contribution" to energy needs.

He said: "The concept of generating electricity from the natural movement of the tide is still relatively new and test projects like this are vital to help us understand how we can fully realise the potential of this substantial energy source. The performance of the first HS1000 has given us great confidence so far. It has been operating to a very high standard. Scotland has the best tidal power resources in Europe, and that's why we are seeing world leading technologies tested here. The potential is there in our waters to make a significant contribution towards our energy needs and carbon reduction targets."

(NE)