The UK is poised to lead the charge in tidal stream energy, a renewable sector offering unmatched reliability in a weather-dependent world. With the potential to deliver consistent energy flows and harness half of Europe’s tidal resources, the UK’s coastal waters hold the key to a greener, more dependable energy future.
Tidal energy stands apart from its renewable counterparts. Unlike solar and wind, whose outputs vary with weather conditions, tidal energy delivers predictability. Tides are governed by celestial mechanics, making them forecastable decades in advance. This dependability, coupled with the proximity of tidal sites to shore, positions the technology as a promising solution to the UK’s energy transition. The strategic location of the UK on the continental shelf enhances the potential, with its robust tidal currents capable of meeting 11% of the nation’s electricity needs by 2050, contributing £17 billion to the economy.
While progress has been notable, challenges persist. Costs, though reduced, remain higher than other renewables. The UK government’s Contracts for Difference (CfD) scheme, particularly the ringfenced support for tidal energy, is helping drive costs down further. This initiative ensures emerging technologies like tidal stream have a competitive path to market. In Allocation Round 6 (AR6) of CfD, six projects across Wales and Scotland secured contracts, totalling 28MW of capacity at a record low £172/MWh. By 2029, the UK is projected to have over 130MW of tidal stream capacity operational.
Scotland leads in contracted capacity, hosting innovative projects like MeyGen, Seastar, and Ocean Star Tidal, while Wales contributes significantly through initiatives such as HydroWing. However, no contracts have yet been secured in England. Industry advocates are urging the government to double the ringfence budget to £30 million annually and set a 1GW deployment target by 2035 to solidify the UK’s global leadership in this sector.
Environmental stewardship remains paramount. Concerns about potential impacts on marine ecosystems, such as collisions with tidal devices and underwater noise, are being addressed through comprehensive monitoring. For instance, a cutting-edge data buoy deployed near the Morlais project in north Wales is gathering critical information to safeguard marine life. This pioneering project, set to become operational in 2026, is leveraging advanced monitoring technologies like sonar imaging and acoustic systems to ensure wildlife protection. Data from such efforts will be shared industry-wide, closing knowledge gaps and reinforcing sustainable practices.
The UK is demonstrating its commitment to becoming a global tidal energy leader, blending innovation with environmental responsibility. By capitalising on its natural resources and fostering technological growth, it stands to shape the future of renewable energy.
SAE Renewables Limited (LON:SAE) was founded in 2005 as a supplier of tidal stream turbines, SAE quickly grew to include development of tidal stream projects and is the majority owner of MeyGen, the world’s largest tidal stream energy project.
