The Wyre Tidal Energy Project will be constructed between Fleetwood and Knott’s End on the Lancashire coatline and has been under development for several years. It is consistent with the objective, announced by Charles Hendry in his recent review of tidal energy potential for the UK Government, of proceeding with a ‘pathfinder’ project as well as other smaller projects. It will consist of a 160 MW tidal power plant capable of producing up to 400 GWh of completely carbon free power each year, coupled with flood protection. The Wyre project is unique in that it mimics actual tidal cycles, which should translate into minimal environmental disruption.
Atlantis Resources recently announced the launch of a new division, Atlantis Energy, focused on the development of non-tidal stream power projects. This partnership with NEW has been entered into with this new division and builds on the recently announced partnership with French floating offshore wind foundation developer, Ideol, to develop a large-scale demonstration project in the UK.
The Wyre project has been spearheaded by Bob Long, Managing Director of NEW, while its design has been a collaboration of leading energy sector companies including Mott Macdonald, BAM Nuttall, Arcadis and Andritz Hydro.
“I am delighted by the involvement of Atlantis in this important project” said Mr Long. “They have a proven track record of tidal development and an excellent team which can now move this project forward with real pace. I am passionate about the Wyre project and am committed to seeing it delivered for the greater economic good of the region. This is not just a low cost renewable energy project. This is a project that will provide flood protection to an area which will be increasingly vulnerable to rising sea levels. It is a project that offers huge opportunity for the regeneration of Fleetwood and the surrounding area and a chance to enhance the recovery of a previously seriously contaminated estuary.”
Tim Cornelius, CEO of Atlantis, added that the project is an opportunity to develop an extremely cost-effective tidal range project representing excellent value for the consumer. The geography of the Wyre means that only arelatively small impoundment is required for the power output produced. This makes Wyre a very cost effective way to test the concepts of tidal range power. Its location also offers the chance to offer multiple benefits to the local community and surrounding area through economic stimulus and habitat preservation.
Atlantis believes that the project is absolutely in line with Charles Hendry’s recommendations to build momentum in the industry and with the Secretary of State’s ambition for affordable, reliable energy supply with a strong domestic supply chain focus. It also fits well with the Government’s stated Northern powerhouse strategy as well as contributing to the development and regeneration of UK towns and cities.
Image: Atlantis Resources - Artists impression of the Wyre project
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