Stingray Tidal Stream Generator (Patent protected including US Patent 6731018) Stingray is designed to extract energy from water that flows due to tidal effects - tidal stream energy. It consists of a hydroplane which has its attack angle relative to the approaching water stream varied by a simple mechanism. This causes the supporting arm to oscillate which in turn forces hydraulic cylinders to extend and retract. This produces high pressure oil which is used to drive a generator. EB has recently completed its programme to design, build, install offshore, test and decommission a full scale demonstrator of its Stingray tidal stream generator. The three year programme undertaken with support from the DTI and NaREC has delivered a mass of technical and commercial data, and has been completed on time and under budget. "For a small private company to stay in business the golden rule is to generate cash. There is funding available for future development but not on the scale or basis that will allow EB to rapidly or profitably make Stingray a commercial reality. Despite the significant support of the DTI, NaREC and Shetland, given the timescales involved and investment required, EB cannot continue to sustain this project on a non profit basis. Because of this we have taken the hard decision to put Stingray on hold. Having invested significant EB funds and 4 years of our lives in demonstrating the technical viability of the system, we share the disappointment of other stakeholders. However, we have to apply our skills to projects that will ensure the long term viability of EB" Tony Trapp Further information on Renewable Offshore Power Generation can be found in EB papers << back