The proposed Severn tidal fence moved a step closer to reality today after an engineering and cost consultant was brought in to assess the scheme.
Independent engineering and environment consultant Gifford has been appointed by VerdErg to study the environmental impact of the proposed tidal fence.
The project team, along with other hopefuls aiming to develop technology for the estuary, has received funding from the Severn Embryonic Technologies Scheme.
The proposal consists of a fence that creates energy from the natural tidal currents flowing up and down the Severn estuary. The pressure created from the upwards and downwards motion of the tidal currents will drive a turbine to generate electricity.
A tidal barrage has been heavily criticised by environmental groups who are worried about the impact technology would have on vast areas of wetlands, home to a wide variety of wildlife. It is believed a tidal fence may be an alternative with less impact.
The fence will only produce 80 percent of the power of a barrage but will cost two-thirds less.
Peter Roberts, Managing Director of VerdErg, said: “We applied our 30 years of experience in the marine environment to the development of the tidal fence, which we call a spectral marine energy converter (SMEC), concentrating on simplicity, robustness and reliability.
“The only underwater moving part is a propeller turbine, a device that has been around for over 100 years. SMEC offers the unique capability of reliably converting abundantly available zero to low head hydropower into electricity on a large scale, at a competitive price."
If successful the technology could be used across the country to generate clean, renewable energy.
Nick Clarke, Technical Director at Gifford, said: “This design has the potential to be used at many tidal estuaries such as the Mersey, as well as the Severn.
“It is also likely to be ideal for micro-hydro power generation on inland rivers and for open-water offshore installation. It can be constructed to any length required. It is a very exciting development.”
The Severn Embryonic Technologies Scheme is supported by Defra, the Welsh Assembly Government, the South West of England Regional Development Agency and the Department of Energy and Climate Change.
Neil Law, Stourport on Severn around 2 years, 8 months ago