BBC Radio Orkney interview Apollo about the upcoming PALM charger trials

Image of our proposed PALM charger design

At Apollo, we’re excited to share an exciting development in our journey for sustainable energy solutions. We are about to begin trials of the PALM Charger.

Our Offshore Renewables Director, Nigel Robinson, sat down with Rob Flett on BBC Radio Orkney to discuss the upcoming trials and the potential impact of the PALM Charger.

What is the PALM Charger?

The PALM Charger is an innovative system designed to provide offshore recharging points for electric marine vessels. This technology helps vessels operate longer by overcoming range limitations, playing a key role in reducing emissions and supporting greener marine operations.

Upcoming Trials in Orkney

Starting this September, the PALM Charger will undergo trials in Orkney. These trials, funded by Innovate UK, are crucial for proving the technology’s potential.

Apollo’s Offshore Renewables Director, Nigel Robinson, emphasised the potential impact of these trials during his interview, stating, “Once the trials are complete, we aim to reach a point where potential customers recognise the PALM Charger as a great idea and are eager to collaborate with us to overcome the final hurdles and bring this innovation to reality.”

The Road Ahead: From Prototype to Pilot

If the trials prove successful, a commercial prototype will be developed with a pilot launch targeted for 2025. This pilot phase will initially focus on Offshore Wind projects, with plans to expand into fisheries, aquaculture, ferries, and the leisure sector.

The potential applications are vast, promising to change how marine energy systems operate and interact with the environment.

Collaboration and Partnership

This project wouldn’t be possible without the support and expertise of our essential partners:

  • EMEC (European Marine Energy Centre): Managing the test and providing the site, EMEC’s involvement ensures that the PALM Charger is evaluated under real-world conditions.
  • Leask Marine: Providing vessels and infrastructure, Leask Marine brings invaluable operational experience to the table, facilitating seamless integration and testing.
  • Department for Transport: Funding through Innovate UK, provided by the Department for Transport, is crucial in bringing this innovative project to life.

Listen to the interview

Listen to Apollo’s Nigel Robinson being interviewed about the upcoming PALM charger trials (11:35)

Stay tuned for more updates as we move forward with the trials and beyond.