Offshore Wind Energy Research
The majority of research related to offshore wind energy is performed under the auspices of the COWRIE research fund.
Wave and Tidal Power Research
The Potential Nature Conservation Impacts of Wave and Tidal Energy Extraction by Marine Renewable Energy Developments
Marine renewable energy devices are designed to extract energy from waves or tidal streams and transfer it (usually in the form of electricity) to land. Hence the effect of introducing such devices into the marine environment is to reduce the amount of natural energy in the water column (mainly) downstream of the devices.
The Countryside Council for Wales and The Crown Estate have jointly funded a desk study into the nature of the likely energy changes, and the possible impacts on marine habitats and species. The study was carried out by ABP Marine Environmental Research Ltd based in Southampton. This work was commissioned to provide more information on the likely level of energy extraction brought about by potential wave and tidal developments and the nature and extent of possible environmental impacts.
There are currently very few practical wave or tidal power devices in operation, with even the most advanced being still at the demonstration stage. Therefore, the study used discussions with the companies who are developing a range of marine energy devices, information from demonstration trials, and the results of computer modelling of the flow in the vicinity of devices, so that appropriate levels of energy reduction were considered. Results show that the maximum level of energy reduction by tidal devices is less than 60%, and probably less for wave devices. However, the geographical extent of the effects of the energy reduction from wave devices is more uncertain than for tidal stream devices.
Overall, the study reported that some habitats and species are likely to be more vulnerable to changes in energy levels resulting from renewable energy devices than others, and the effects are very habitat specific. Habitats of particular concern include sub-tidal sands, tidal rapids and exposed sub-tidal mixed sediments. The study report includes guidance to developers of marine renewable devices and also highlights areas where there are gaps in data and information.
To download a PDF copy of the executive summary or the full report arising from the study, please click on the relevant link below.
Further Information
|
