More turbines added to Pentland Firth tidal scheme

A graphic showing turbines on the seabed

The construction of a major tidal energy project will start with six turbines instead of four, as originally announced.

Atlantis Resources said last week that it would start installing devices in the Inner Sound of the Pentland Firth over the next two years.

It has now announced that it has negotiated a £7.5m contract to construct two additional turbines.

The UK's Energy Technologies Institute (ETI) is providing the funding.

The six turbines should generate enough electricity for 4,500 homes.

By 2020, 61 turbines could be installed and producing enough power for about 42,000 homes.

Atlantis said the completed scheme would have up to 269 turbines submerged on the seabed.

The Scottish and UK governments, Highlands and Islands Enterprise and Crown Estate are providing millions of pounds in funding.