EMEC Ltd

EMEC was established to help the evolution of marine energy devices from the prototype stage into the commercial marketplace. We are at the forefront fo the development of marine renewables – technologies that generate electricity for homes and businesses by harnessing the power of waves and tidal streams.

Based at Stromness, EMEC has an international role to play in driving the advancement of tidal and wave technologies. As the first centre of its kind to be created anywhere in the world, we offer developers the opportunity to test prototype devices in unrivalled wave and tidal conditions.

Orkney was chosen because of its natural and manmade resources. The wave test site receives uninterrupted Atlantic waves of up to 15m. Orkney is the most northerly community connected to the UK national grid, has excellent harbour facilities, regular flight services and a professional working community.

Based here – you will not only be offered amazing career opportunities – but also an unsurpassed way of life. Orkney is an archipelago of 70 or so islands and skerries, of which 17 are currently inhabited and are full of enchanting discoveries.The Islands cover an area of 974 square kilometres, of which more than half is taken up by the Mainland, which is the group’s largest island.The islands are about 85 km from north to south and 37 km from east to west. Approximately 20,000 people live in Orkney, the majority of which live in the main towns of Kirkwall and Stromness. The islands are low-lying, gently sloping and richly fertile with the exception of the island of Hoy, which is high and rugged. The climate is temperate, warmed by the Gulf Stream; with the driest months being April, May and June. When in Orkney you’ll feel touched by the power of the sea and also by the power of the past. With 5,000 years of culture, there is history around every corner. Wherever you are, you can literally touch the past as you run your hand across rock hewn thousands of years ago. Orkney also boasts a vibrant contemporary culture, which draws people in its own right. Throughout the year there are festivals ranging from the magical midsummer St Magnus Festival to the annual agricultural shows and sporting events, including Orkney’s very own Ba’ and, of course, the islands’ varied craft industry continues through all seasons. www.emec.org.uk