Tidal turbine deployment in the Bristol Channel: a case study

The renewable energy route map for Wales outlines ambitious targets for 50% renewables by 2025. The Welsh coast, subject to tidal ranges of the order of 13 m and tidal flows in excess of 3 m/s, is thus in an ideal position to significantly contribute to these targets. Tidal stream energy is an emerging energy sector and a relatively small number of devices are at various stages of development in Wales. However, before such demonstration devices or arrays can be applied at a larger scale, a number of consents and permissions must be obtained to ensure safe and environmentally responsible deployment. This paper describes the multidisciplinary work that has been undertaken on an area of ocean that could be used for the deployment of a tidal stream turbine. The paper aims to put the scientific work undertaken into the context of device deployment in a complex marine environment and to provide an overview of the surveying and modelling required for the deployment of a single demonstration device off the Welsh coast. The Bristol Channel was chosen as a case study because of its high tidal flows and proximity to national grid connections and support infrastructure. This paper provides an overview of the research carried out during the project; the details of each discipline will be provided in individual papers by the respective subject authors.