Tidal energy startup could find a home for its technology if it succeeds at UK CFD 2025

Spiralis Energy, a London-based tidal energy start-up, has revealed its intention to bid for a 15-year contract with the UK government under the Contracts for Difference (CfD) 2025 to integrate its technology into the national grid.

The company has already identified a site in Wales that it would use if successful. Establishing a manufacturing and serial operation in Wales would create significant employment and apprenticeship opportunities in the coastal and marine industries, Spiralis Energy said.

Spiralis Energy aims to power 11% of the national grid using its tidal energy technology.

“The UK has the best knowledge of tides in the world. Our technology can provide a renewable energy source that does not harm marine life and is part of a circular economy” said the CEO of Spiralis Energy, Guy Levene OBE (possession).

“What makes Spiralis easy to scale is that our units have a modular design that allows them to fit into a standard shipping container for inexpensive transport anywhere in the world. It’s really quite simple – we offer a simple, more affordable, more reliable and sustainable energy solution; our technology just works.”

Spiralis is to test two of its power-generating Axial Skelter propellers in the waters off Alderney in the Channel Islands. With some of the strongest tidal currents in Europe and a unique seabed, Alderney is supporting the development of the project.

Spiralis technology is based on principles similar to the Archimedes screw. According to the company, initial testing in tidal waters of a quarter-scale 3D-printed Axial Skelter prototype was successful, achieving the power outputs predicted based on computer-aided (CFD) modeling.

Compared to existing renewable energy solutions, the Axial Skelter’s energy production is lower than that of an offshore wind turbine, the company said. They are cheaper to manufacture and maintain, costing around £1 million per unit, with annual maintenance at around £100,000.

Axial Skelters are designed to be easy to maintain and have a standard service schedule. Their modular design allows for quick repairs, with components being swapped out during tidal periods, similar to a lay-up at sea, Spiralis Energy said. Made from recycled materials, Axial Skelters are fully recyclable at end-of-life and pose minimal risk to marine life.

In recent company news, Spiralis Energy has joined the UK’s Marine Energy Council (MEC) as a lead partner, alongside 12 other companies, to support the council’s efforts to harness the potential of UK marine energy.