John Sargent Lecture: The Severn Tidal Power Dilemma

Overview

With the largest tidal range in Europe, there’s been considerable interest in tidal power generation on the Severn Estuary for at least a century. Over this period, numerous proposals and investigations have led to short-term flurries of interest, meanwhile, other sources of power, including nuclear, have been developed around the estuary’s shores.

This presentation will provide a brief overview of the tidal regime and environment of the Severn before tracing the recent development of interest in tidal energy generation in the estuary, including the current investigations by the Severn Estuary Commission.  

As part of this review, the key challenges facing tidal energy generation scheme in the Severn will be outlined. Dr Ballinger will provide her own unique perspective based on her involvement over the last few decades with the Severn Estuary Partnership, an independent, estuary-wide initiative led by local authorities and statutory agencies in the region.

Refreshments will be available from 17:30, and Kendal’s Bar will be open after the event for networking opportunities.