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Explore the potential of Severn tidal power, a sustainable energy solution, balancing economic, social, and environmental impacts. Analyzing the feasibility study's key points and pushing towards a greener future.
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Severn Tidal Power Sustainable Development and Severn Tidal Power 7 March 2009 Peter Kydd Director of Strategic Consulting Parsons Brinckerhoff
Severn Tidal Power Context Why is Severn Tidal Power being studied? Security of Supply • tidal power is predictable 15% EU target for renewable energy by 2020 • Severn tidal power costs are less than those required to achieve the corresponding electricity target of 32% 80% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2050 • requires all electricity to be carbon free by 2030
Sustainable Development Definition 1987:"development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” Our Common Future 1994: "Sustainable development is about ensuring a better quality of life for everyone, now and for generations to come."UK government
Triple Bottom Line SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT CONSIDERATIONS THE OBJECTIVE: To achieve the best balance between economic, environmental and social benefits and impacts ECONOMIC SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT
Key points in a sustainable context Economics • Higher Energy Costs than current electricity but predictable and renewable, lasts for 120 years • How much energy to extract? The greater the energy extraction, the greater the impacts. • How much to invest in one project? £30bn, £20bn, £5bn, £2bn • Contributes to UK Government 80% reduction of carbon emissions by 2050. • More Employment but also some losses also if ports are adversely affected
Key points in a sustainable context Environment • Potential for large scale low carbon generation in one location • Displaces carbon emissions from other power stations • Night time energy could be used for electric cars? • Major impact on natural environment – potential loss of habitats / species, requiring significant mitigation / compensation • Reduced tidal range, water quality changes
Key points in a sustainable context Social • Flood Defence – barrages offer protection from surges and sea level rise but existing land drainage would require modification • Impact of large transient construction labour force? • Impact on Ports and associated local employment? • Potential benefits – leisure, tourism, transport links?
Severn Tidal Power Feasibility Study All Engineering and SEA Reports are available on the public consultation web-site. http://severntidalpowerconsultation.decc.gov.uk