Marine energy developer Atlantis Resources has signed a long-term lease with the Duchy of Lancaster for the riverbed required to build its 160-MW Wyre tidal barrage.
Securing the site is the most recent in what Atlantis expects to be a three-year process during which it must now collaborate with the Duchy, Wyre and Lancashire councils, financiers, suppliers and the U.K.’s Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, amongst others, to obtain the approvals necessary for construction.
“This is the pathfinder project the U.K. government is looking for, with the potential to facilitate wide-scale development of the U.K.’s enviable tidal range resources,” Atlantis CEO Tim Cornelius said. “The development, construction and operation of tidal barrages, a well understood and proven predictable renewable energy technology, will stimulate local economies across the country, establishing improved infrastructure, and creating job and supply chain opportunities.”
HydroWorld.com reported the parties were beginning negotiations in June.
“As a responsible landowner, the Duchy is committed to encouraging sustainability in all its forms, including the generation of sustainable energy,” said Graeme Chalk, Duchy Head of Project Management. “The introduction of a tidal barrage between Fleetwood and Knott End could bring great benefits to the local economy as well as cheaper, cleaner energy and we look forward to seeing Atlantis deliver these as the project progresses.”
The Wyre project has been in development for several years, with collaboration from companies including Mott Macdonald, BAM Nuttall, Arcadis and Andritz Hydro. Atlantis entered into a partnership with Natural Energy Wire for the project in Februrary.
Atlantis Resources is also currently working to develop the MeyGen tidal array, which is located in Scotland’s Pentland Firth.
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