A key challenge for the tidal Stream Energy sector is designing turbines that can operate reliably underwater for extended periods. A successful tidal energy provider would adopt a condition-based maintenance strategy, ideally running equipment for over six years between overhauls. Proteus and SKF believe this approach have been validated by the MeyGen pathfinder array, commissioned in 2017 as a blueprint for utility-scale tidal stream projects. In continuous operation since 2018, the array has now proven the long-term reliability needed to turn this vision into reality.  "We need suppliers that understand the demands of the subsea environment, where the consequences of key component failure are impactful. SKF has played a significant role in Proteus' ongoing refinement and risk reduction efforts, and the input goes well beyond the supply of individual components" says Drew Blaxland, CEO of Proteus Marine Renewables.   The AR series tidal turbines are horizontal axis machines, installed directly on the seabed at a minimum depth of 30 meters. Positioned along the direction of tidal flow, the turbines capture energy in both ebb and flood tides using a three-bladed rotor. This fully submerged, bottom-mounted configuration enables efficient power generation without visual impact.