Successful Conference Sets Out Island Clean Energy Plans

The Department of Economic Development hosted a successful breakfast seminar at the recent Rushlight Show, a leading event for the clean tech energy industry.

Over 170 people registered to attend the Isle of Man business breakfast event in London. Dr Ken Milne, Director of Energy at the Department of Economic Development, hosted the event and outlined the many benefits that the Isle of Man can offer to clean tech businesses.

Other speakers included the recently chosen preferred developers of the wind and tidal projects within the Isle of Man's territorial seas, including representatives from DONG Energy, Manx Tidal Energy Ltd and Tocardo Tidal Energy Ltd.

Graham Cregeen MHK, the Department's Member with responsibility for Clean Tech and Energy commented:

'It is encouraging to see real progress in the planned clean energy developments scheduled to take place in the Island's territorial seas. DONG Energy are leaders in creating clean and cost-effective energy and their work will bring real benefits for the local economy as well as establishing the Island at the forefront of clean technology developments.

'Last year Tynwald approved the offshore energy strategy which was highlighted as a key strategic theme in Government's Vision2020 strategy.

'Vision2020 positions the Isle of Man as a viable hub for offshore energy and outlines the diverse range of jobs associated with this, including manufacturing and financial services. The success of the Rushlight breakfast seminar is a great step towards achieving this goal.'

Guest speakers at the event shared details of their work in the Isle of Man. Head of Environment and Licensing at DONG Energy, David Garner, outlined the proposed project and timeline to deliver an offshore wind farm in the Isle of Man's territorial seas. Initial surveys of the area are planned to commence later this year.

Paul Morris from Tocardo Tidal Energy discussed new technology developments and strategies for achieving clean, sustainable and reliable energy solutions. Their tidal power device has been deployed at various locations around the world with a proven track record of success.

Guest speaker, Marshall Mermell from Isle of Man based Advanced Resilient Technology Limited explained the Intellectual Property benefits that the Isle of Man can offer to clean tech energy companies. The organisation has a global pipeline of planned projects to produce biochar from biomass material using a gasification process.

For a full guide to the seminar and presentations from the speakers, please visit http://www.whereyoucan.com/ibweb/res/pdf/presentations/Rushlight%20presentation%202015.pdf