Crown Estate approves wave and tidal energy sites

The Crown Estate has given the go ahead for development of a number of wave and tidal energy sites around the UK.

The six new tidal stream and wave energy demonstration sites will be set up to allow local organisations to sub-let and manage areas of the seabed to tidal and wave energy developers. Five new wave and tidal energy sites have also been approved, each with the potential to generate electricity at between 10MW to 30MW.

The sites are located around the UK with three off England’s coast at North Cornwall, Devon and Dorset, four off the Scottish coast at Mull of Galloway, Isle of Harris, Islay and the Stronsay Firth, Strangford Lough in Northern Ireland and three sites off the Welsh coast at South Pembrokeshire, Anglesey and Holyhead Deep. Wales’ first commercial tidal stream energy project is due to launch off the Anglesey coast in 2016.

Large scale wave and tidal energy technology remains in its infancy. Rob Hastings, director of energy and infrastructure at the Crown Estate said: “By providing these additional seabed rights we are pleased to be enabling further technology development and commercialisation, which will be critical if the UK is to unlock its significant natural resources for wave and tidal current energy.

“This innovative approach to leasing the seabed sees us responding to market demand and introducing managed demonstration zones to give other organisations the opportunity to lend tangible support in their local areas.”

“Our ports, supply-chain infrastructure and grid infrastructure also put us in an enviable position for developing a thriving marine energy market, both as a significant generator and as an exporter of marine energy knowledge, technologies and services.”

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