TIDAL power has received a further boost after the UK Government pumped another £50m. into the technology. Guernsey Electricity, which invested £250,000 in Marine Current Technologies earlier this year, has welcomed the endorsement.
MCT is involved in pioneering research that could lead to electricity generation off the island’s coast.
‘I think the level of investment shows how serious the UK Government is about tidal and wave power,’ said Guernsey Electricity engineering director Steve Morris.
‘This is precisely the sort of research that we have taken an active interest in and it is the clearest indication yet of how viable this emerging technology is now considered to be.’
In announcing the Marine Research Development Fund, secretary for trade and industry Patricia Hewitt said that renewable energy played a vital part in the fight against climate change.
The fund is set to support businesses that can bring research and development to the marketplace.
‘We are delighted the UK Government recognises the potential contribution tidal energy can make by providing support in such a real way,’ said Mr Morris. ‘It is a serious investment that will help what are still infant technologies to grow.’
Guernsey Electricity’s investment has also received political backing locally. ‘I see the merits of tidal power as a sustainable energy source,’ said Treasury and Resources minister Lyndon Trott.
‘The levels of investment necessary form part of our island’s strategic forward thinking. The wealth of knowledge at Guernsey Electricity means they are the best people to advise on these issues.’
Commerce and Employment minister Stuart Falla said that the energy strategy for Guernsey was one of his board’s main priorities.
‘The board is supportive of Guernsey Electricity’s investment in the application of tidal-power energy in Guernsey.’
The Channel Islands have some of the world’s fastest tidal flows and experts predict that this could lead to them exporting power.
‘MCT has significant grants from the UK Government and our investment gives us access to all the technology and will hopefully lead to them setting up commercially-based turbines in Guernsey,’ said GE managing director Ian Watson.
It is attending MCT board meetings, but cannot put a timeframe on the technology’s introduction.
‘It’s difficult to speculate in terms of commercial viability - we don’t know - but it’s happening some time in the near future,’ said Mr Watson.
He said once that happened, the company’s concern would be finding a suitable site.
‘We’ve already had initial talks with Commerce and Employment and Treasury and Resources but it’s a matter for the States before the final decision is made.’
Article posted on 12th August, 2004 - 12.00am
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