Chance for Wales to power ahead on the first wave of tidal energy

Aug 7 2010 by Robin Turner, Western Mail
WALES could at last be taking the lead when it comes to renewable energy thanks to the go- ahead for trials of an undersea tidal power scheme off Pembrokeshire.

The pioneering technology for harnessing the vast energy in our reliable-as-clockwork tides has been dreamed up and produced in Wales.

Marine engineer Richard Ayre came up with the idea then developed it at his base in Pembrokeshire’s Little Haven.

Trademarked DeltaStream, the technology could eventually produce thousands of jobs for recession-hit Wales.

The scheme is a perfect example of how green energy can benefit both the global environment and our domestic economy.

Unlike other forms of renewable energy, like solar and wind, the sub-sea DeltaStream turbines are powered by an entirely predictable natural resource.

And the technology is virtually invisible with work having been done to minimise harm to the marine environment.

It is also easy to install, having the ability to be put in place from a specially adapted barge.

And even in the prototype test, which will last 12 months, people in St Davids will get a reliable supply of green energy.

If the project gets off the ground as expected, many thousands more will have clean power entering their homes.

While images of the industrial revolution may be synonymous with Wales’ former economic prosperity, this kind of project shows a glimpse into a future in which this nation can be prosperous and forward-looking – without the belching chimneys.

By first thinking up a clean energy idea then backing it with hard cash and a “can do” attitude, Wales can produce jobs and even start a new manufacturing industry.

The proposed Severn Barrage, the 10-mile long, £15bn tidal energy scheme on a giant scale between Cardiff and Somerset, has its critics.

And the UK Government in its Severn Tidal Power Feasibility Study will no doubt be taking seriously the concerns about the scheme’s threat to wetlands and other side effects.

But it is estimated it could produce 30,000 to 40,000 jobs at the peak of production and produce a stream of clean energy for generations to come.

It would be one of the world’s biggest and most difficult engineering projects.

The tides of the Severn Estuary rise and fall around 36 feet twice a day every day.

By harnessing the ancient power of the tides, Wales could not only be creating new jobs it could act as a green path- finder, setting an example for others.

The exciting DeltaStream project in Ramsey Sound will attract people from around the world.

And if the tests are successful Wales could find itself exporting a technology that could not only improve the economy but could also help save the planet.