The Severn Tidal Power Group has insisted that the barrage, if given the green light, could comprise nearly ‘one third’ of the government’s 2015 renewables target.

The STBG has stepped up its proposal by claiming to provide a ‘significant percentage’ of the UK’s ‘20% by 2020’ renewables aspiration.

Friends of the Earth Cymru is opposed to the construction of the Severn Barrage and has now produced a report which it has filed to the government as they conduct their feasibility study.

In its report FOE is urging the government to consider other options, such as tidal lagoons which they see as a less invasive and cheaper alternative.

Compromise

FOE Newport campaigner, Bleddyn Lake, said: “The government’s target is not necessarily very aspirational. A barrage could further compromise the development of other renewables.”

“The barrage could adversely affect the construction of offshore wind farms and other low carbon and renewable technologies,” Lake added.

“The barrage could still squeeze the development of other more cost effective low carbon technologies as there would be finite public funds.”

 

 

Brean Down, the site of the proposed barrage

 

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