Last week, the Labour Party released their strategy for energy in the run-up the election in July, which was the first glimpse of the specifics of the opposition party's' energy plan.
The British Hydropower Association was pleased to see that "Unleash Marine Energy and Tidal" was included in their "Mission by 2030". The strategy also gave more clarification on Labour's plan for the Grid, with mention of clearing the grid connection queue and the utilisation of Smart Energy especially welcomed by the BHA.
However, there needs to be more clarity from both Labour and the Government on how they expect to either "unleash" or "aggressively explore" Tidal Energy, especially Tidal Range. The BHA is calling for this clarity to be made apparent in both party's manifestos and pledges, with a commitment to developing a roadmap for the development of Tidal Range within the UK.
Our CEO, Kate Gilmartin, had this to say about the potential of tidal range:
"With 20GW of potential energy, Tidal Range is a no regrets opportunity for the UK's energy sector. These intergenerational assets will give us 120+ years of timetabled energy generation and could form the long term cornerstone of a decarbonised grid, fit for the future. With the UK spending £117 Bn on imported energy in 2022, UK PLC can't afford not to use our natural resources to maximise energy generation and meet the energy trilemma requirements of: Energy Security, Energy Sustainability and Energy Affordability."
Pragmatic and sustained political will is vital if the UK is not to be left behind by other countries who seize the supply chain, employment and other opportunities connected to Tidal Range and energy decarbonisation. Deeds not words are what's needed in Labour are to meet their ambitious target of decarbonising the grid by 2030.
If you would like to read more about Tidal Range and its potential, read more here, and click here to read Labour's Energy Strategy in full.
