Tidal power represents a huge store and the UK is uniquely well-placed to exploit it.
We have made significant strides in harnessing wind and solar technology. Howebver, transition to more renewable power requires all the energy available
British companies lead the way in harnessing the power of the tide. Designs involve an underwater kite that ‘flies’ in the water to maximize the speed of the rotors’ spin. Tidal energy holds tremendous potential because water serves as an exceptionally potent power source. It is nearly 1,000 times denser than air, resulting in a more concentrated energy output. Additionally, it possesses a significant advantage over other renewable energy: the predictability of tides. While wind and solar power deployment is becoming more cost-effective. In contrast, tidal power can provide a consistent, reliable stream of energy day in and day out.
Scotland is not the exclusive site for tidal power development in the UK. A £35 million tidal energy project in North Wales, with the aim of supplying energy to over 180,000 homes, is currently underway. The Morlais Project will establish the infrastructure for developers of tidal energy technology to deploy their devices. That is including surface and sub-surface moored converters, on a commercial scale.
Morlais is the largest consented tidal energy project in the UK and is overseen by the Anglesey-based social enterprise Menter Môn. The site has the capacity to generate up to 240MW of low-carbon electricity, with five developers already agreeing to connect within the scheme and discussions with an additional five at an advanced stage. According to the Morlais website, the companies engaged in discussions so far include Aquantis Tech, Big Moon Power, HydroWing, Instream, Magallanes, Nova Innovation Ltd, Orbital Marine Power Ltd, QED Naval, Sabella, and Verdant Isles Ltd.
