World’s First Tidal Lagoon Project Moves Ahead in Severn Estuary

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The world’s first tidal range lagoon project has made significant progress after receiving strong support from the Severn Estuary Commission. This proposal aims to utilize the enormous tidal range of the Severn Estuary—one of the highest in the world, reaching up to 14 meters—to generate predictable, low-carbon electricity. The project is seen as a key opportunity to help the UK meet its growing demand for clean energy and enhance the stability of the national grid.

The Severn Estuary Commission, comprising experts from engineering, industry, environmental science, and trade unions, conducted an extensive assessment of renewable energy options for the region. Their report clearly identifies a tidal lagoon as the best solution that balances green energy output, environmental protection, and economic interests, including safeguarding commercial activities at the Port of Bristol.

Wales Green Party leader Anthony Slaughter welcomed the report, emphasizing the unique potential of the Severn Estuary’s tidal range and calling for urgent government backing to realize the project. He highlighted the chance to foster research, development, and high-quality jobs in Wales and neighboring English regions, moving away from extractive industries with profits leaving the area.

Rebecca Evans MS, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning in Wales, expressed support for making Wales a global hub for emerging tidal technologies. She acknowledged the estuary’s immense energy potential and the importance of collaboration with the UK Government and regional partners to harness this while protecting the estuary’s unique environment.

The Commission’s key findings underscore the Severn Estuary as the UK’s largest tidal energy resource, capable of supplying up to 7% of the country’s current electricity demand. Given the long development times, they stress the need to start projects soon to contribute meaningfully to the UK’s net zero 2050 target. Tidal range energy complements other renewable sources like offshore wind, solar, and nuclear by providing reliable, indigenous power that enhances grid stability and energy security.

Historically, large barrage schemes across the estuary were proposed in the 1980s and revisited in 2010 but were shelved due to high costs and environmental concerns. The current recommendation favors tidal lagoons, which are smaller, cause less environmental disruption, and avoid blocking migratory fish routes or major shipping lanes. Lagoons also allow for phased development and reduced impact on commercial port operations, making them more feasible under current environmental legislation.

The Swansea Bay Tidal Lagoon project exemplifies this approach. It is designed as a ‘U’-shaped breakwater with hydro turbines that generate electricity from the rising and falling tides, producing power four times a day, every day. Once operational, it could supply clean energy to around 155,000 homes and reduce carbon emissions by up to 236,000 tonnes annually, while also boosting the local economy and providing coastal protection.

In summary, the Severn Estuary tidal lagoon project represents a promising, environmentally sensitive, and economically beneficial renewable energy solution. It leverages the estuary’s exceptional tidal range to produce consistent, low-carbon electricity, supporting the UK’s clean energy ambitions and regional development goals