Experts from across the UK met for the first time in Cardiff as part of the new Severn Estuary Commission to re-examine the potential for a world leading tidal energy scheme in the area.

Alongside this, the commission will be publishing a new report from the consultants WSP explaining why there is now a case to re-examine the potential of the estuary to deliver sustainable energy.

The estuary is home to the highest tidal range in Europe with some estimates suggesting it can provide up to 7% of the UK’s electricity needs.

The Western Gateway Partnership, a non-statutory body made up of local authorities, businesses, and academia across south Wales and the west of England, has appointed Dr Andrew Garrad to chair the commission. A number of Severn Barrage projects have been proposed over the last few decades.

Dr Garrad said that the technology has moved on since the idea was first explored seriously decades ago. “There is still much which needs to be considered and evidence to be reviewed in order to decide whether there is now a viable option to harness the awesome power of the Severn Estuary. Following considerable past attempts, our mission is to navigate the complexities, balance environmental concerns, and unlock sustainable opportunities that will define the future of energy in the Severn Estuary,” he said.

Political backing

Nuclear and Renewables minister Andrew Bowie MP, said: “It is great to see the Western Gateway partnership launching this new commission to explore the potential of the Severn Estuary.

Welsh climate change minister Julie James is backing the proposal, and said “We warmly welcome the establishment of the Western Gateway’s Severn Estuary Commission and commitment to exploring the immense energy potential of this important landmark,” she said. “The Welsh Government has already stated our ambition for Wales to become a world centre for emerging tidal technologies.

“By bringing together national experts from across Wales and England to explore this issue I am confident that the commission will be able to consider the needs of our vital ecosystems, the environment and other sea users alongside the potential for renewable energy. Through our Tidal Lagoon Challenge, I look forward to being able to collaborate to develop the sector’s knowledge base and understand the opportunities presented by our Welsh waters,” she added.

Further information from the Western Gateway Partnership can be read here.