Wales introduces strategic resource areas for tidal stream energy

Wales has taken a step forward in marine planning by introducing its first Strategic Resource Areas (SRAs) for tidal stream energy, aiming to foster the sustainable development of marine energy while safeguarding sensitive ecosystems.

The Welsh government launched its first marine plan in 2019, laying out a framework for sustainable use of marine resources. In a recent update to the Senedd, Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies, unveiled the SRAs, designed to balance renewable energy aims with environmental protection.

“SRAs are a new and innovative marine planning tool which will indicate which sectors may have priority over others in specific areas. We must plan carefully for the future of our seas, understanding the opportunities for generating sustainable and green energy while also protecting and enhancing our unique, irreplaceable marine environment,” said Irranca-Davies.

According to the Welsh government, the SRAs will guide identifying areas with potential for future tidal stream energy projects. Despite safeguarding these zones for potential development, any proposal within an SRA will still undergo regulatory requirements to ensure environmental protection and mitigate social impacts.

“This does not mean that proposals for development in these areas would be approved. All proposals, whether within or outside of an SRA, will have to apply for proper consents and must satisfy rigorous regulatory requirements on environmental protection and social impact,” added Irranca-Davies.

Wales government said it aims to position itself at the forefront of tidal stream energy. This move is expected to strengthen the supply chain and create jobs in coastal communities. However, the government sees the need to provide clarity and certainty for developers.

“Tidal stream is an emerging and innovative sector, developing cutting-edge technology to generate predictable and sustainable energy from our seas. It has the potential to play a significant role in decarbonising our energy system and achieving net zero, while offering high quality employment and supply chain opportunities for our coastal communities,” noted the Deputy First Minister.

According to the Welsh government, the SRAs were developed through collaboration with industry stakeholders and experts. 

“We are already working with our partners to develop proposals for SRAs for other important sectors, including floating offshore wind. Alongside this, we are developing guidance on how to enhance the marine ecosystem through the marine plan,” Irranca-Davies added.

Further guidance on future marine developments and environmental protection is expected as the government continues its review of marine planning approaches. 

“Our seas are an incredible natural asset, which have the potential to be central to addressing both the climate and nature emergencies. I firmly believe that our marine planning system has a key role to play in realising this potential, guiding and supporting sustainable development to benefit our coastal communities and economy while also protecting and enhancing our marine environment,” concluded Irranca-Davies.

According to Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult and Imperial College London (ICL) research from 2024, tidal energy has the potential to provide 11.5 GW to the UK energy system, 11% of the UK’s electricity demand, and tidal stream projects could contribute up to £17 billion to the UK economy by 2050.

The UK government raised the funding for tidal stream ringfence in the 2024 renewable auction from £10 million (approximately $12,8 million) to a £15 million (approximately $19,2 million) budget.