New Studies to be Done on Tidal Energy

There is new potential in the UK for cheap electricity from wave power after a new study is done. This new study, which will examine the potential of having electricity generated from the waters surrounding Wales and England, has been commissioned by the UK government. As the UK searches for more ways to generate its own power, wave energy could be looking more and more promising.

All of this research is just part of the UK government’s major drive to tap into the potential of tidal electricity. Many experts feel that the UK has just begun to scratch the surface of what tidal energy can really do.

Energy minister Lord Hunt, when speaking to the experts at the British Wind Energy Agency, said that this research will mark a very significant step forward in marine energy for the UK. He went on to say that this screening exercise is going to allow the UK to better understand the energy potential from tidal energy devices. It can also help to give a very realistic timescale of when multiple devices can be up and running.

The study is going to be headed by the environment consultancy AEA, as well as Hartley Anderson. Developers, as well as utility firms and small businesses, are going to be asked to give their input on the issue of tidal energy as well. Right now experts are saying that tidal energy in the Severn estuary could make as much as five percent of the UK energy needs.

Other information about the research is set to be released after the study is completed.