A NEWLY extended pier in Orkney is host to more tidal energy devices and hardware than any other site in the world, it is claimed.

The 160-metre extension to the 225-metre Hatson pier on the outskirts of Kirkwall was an £8m Orkney Islands Council project.

It was undertaken to provide a major support and logistics base for developers seeking to test wave and tidal energy technologies at the European Marine Energy Centre.

Five tidal energy developers - OpenHydro, Alstom Hydro, Scotrenewables Tidal Power, ANDRITZ Hydro Hammerfest and Voith Hydro - all used the new facilities in recent weeks.

In addition, a giant shore-based crane, capable of lifting up to 1000 tonnes, has been assembled on the pier.