In response to the DECC’s report on tidal energy options in the Severn Estuary, Corlan Hafren has published its own vision for The Severn Barrage − detailing its belief that, working with government, it can deliver the Severn Barrage as a viable project without investing significant public funds. As well as providing over 5 per cent of the UK’s energy needs, the project would be a significant step towards delivering the country’s 2020 and 2050 carbon reduction targets.

Corlan Hafren director, Tony Pryor explains: “As the government strives to tackle the twin challenges of energy security and climate change targets, we’re offering a way forward. With one of the largest tidal range in the world, the site has the potential to provide guaranteed energy output for well over a century. The projected 120-year lifespan of the Severn tidal barrage from Lavernock Point to Brean Down means the scheme also has the potential to provide an economic way to produce electricity (in terms of cost per kilowatt), as part of an appropriate mix of renewable energy sources.”

By the 2020s, the Severn Barrage could be delivering energy to the National Grid. In a decade that promises plenty of change in terms of how energy is bought, sold, produced and consumed, energy from the barrage is likely to be fuelling an increasing number of low-energy heating and lighting devices, and electric vehicles, and making an important contribution to the government’s proposed smart grid. Inherent flexibility within the proposed design will accommodate demand growth and can help to mitigate environmental concerns, within a national context. It provides a key component of a diversified, resilient and secure national ‘green’ energy strategy as a fully predictable natural energy source.

The project is also set to fuel regeneration in Wales and south-west England, bringing tens of thousands of new, permanent jobs to the region and creating an internationally recognised centre of expertise in renewable energy provision and manufacture. Additionally, it will enable commercial and recreational opportunities and improved transport links to bring benefits to the area.

The time is right for The Severn Barrage. It is of national scale and importance fitting within the enabling policy framework set by government. This major private investment benefits the UK by delivering low carbon energy, linked to a smart grid, and replacing time-expired existing generation. It will indeed be the means for substantial job creation and regeneration in tough times.