TIDAL POWER FORUM

Interest in the use of the United Kingdom's tidal energy resources is growing rapidly as it becomes apparent that they are not only plentiful, but because of their predictability can be integrated readily into an efficient electricity system. However, like all generation projects, tidal systems have a significant environmental impact. Balancing the pros and cons of proposals for tidal generation, such as the Severn Barrage, and so reaching a rational decision is dependent on good information.

The exploitation of the natural rise and fall of the level of the seas and oceans is one of the oldest forms of renewable energy.  Indeed, tide mills on the British, French and Spanish coasts date back to around 787 A.D. Today, with the new challenges of climate change and security of supply, interest has been renewed in the potential of tidal power, predicted to have the capacity to supply over 10% of the UK’s demand for electrical energy (MWhs).  No other source of renewable energy offers such a combination of scale, reliability and predictable contribution to supply.  Tidal stream technology is at an exciting but still experimental stage.  Tidal range has even greater potential with the world’s second highest tidal range found in the Severn Estuary.  La Rance barrage in France serves as a useful example of a tidal range technology generating electricity for the past forty years.

Ambitious projects such as the Severn Barrage would provide 120 years of low carbon electricity, with a predicted installed capacity of 8640 MW compared with 240 MW at La Rance.  Similar to all major infrastructure projects, the Severn Barrage raises complex issues that need to be addressed and balanced against potential benefits.  REF welcomes the Government’s Severn Barrage Feasibility Study and trusts that, without compromise, a timely clear decision made be reached on the most efficient and environmentally acceptable solution to utilise the power of the Severn Estuary for the benefit of many generations to come.

REF created the Tidal Power Forum in mid 2007 to bring experts together in a central forum for discussion and to provide an independent source of scientifically robust advice.  REF has asked Mrs Candida Whitmill to chair the Forum on behalf of the Foundation.

Contact details:
Candida Whitmill
Tel: 020 7930 3636
Direct Line: 01409 271 171
Mbl: 07973 776 723
Email: candida@mc2business.co.uk