An exploitation plan of tidal power in the Severn Estuary

Abstract

The Severn Estuary has the second largest tidal range in the world and full of potential tidal power. The estuary area has great ecological value due to its nature conservation sites, biological habitats and unique coastal ecological system. Various kinds of plans and projects about exploiting the Severn Estuary have been proposed by many organizations for years. Giving the consideration of electricity generating efficiency, financial costs and especially environmental impacts, it is reasonable to believe that the application of a tidal lagoon system in the estuary area is the most suitable choice among all the options, which has the features of eco-friendly, effective, predictable and flood defending. The implementation of the Severn Estuary tidal lagoon system can be a long-term and stable renewable energy source for UK and will provide reference value for the development of other coastal area.