The RSPB have broadly welcomed early plans for a tidal power barrage in the Mersey Estuary proposed by Peel Energy

Dec 3 2009 Chester Chronicle

A TIDAL power barrage which could provide energy for 260,000 homes in Merseyside and Liverpool has been welcomed by the RSPB despite fears the power plant could impact on the Mersey Estuary environment.

Developer Peel Energy met RSPB representatives, who say have broadly welcomed plans for a tidal energy scheme on the Mersey but they have concerns the environmental impact is not being given enough consideration.

Peter Robertson, the RSPB’s conservation manager for the North of England, said: “As a conservation charity, we support renewable energy so long as schemes do not have a significantly adverse effect on the environment.

“Peel need to take care that, by focusing on energy maximisation, they do not come up with a scheme that may damage the Mersey’s precious natural environment.

“I sincerely hope that this project will select the most appropriate technology to protect the environment of the Mersey.

“For this reason, I believe that the solution lies in emerging technologies. Although it is vital to address Government carbon reduction targets, we only have one opportunity to get this right for the Mersey and we should take the time needed to find the best solution.

“The RSPB would be happy to work constructively with Peel to help it search for the best technology designed to ensure that any negative impact on the environment is minimised.”

Peel plan to deliver power from the River Mersey by 2020.

At the meeting, held last Wednesday, Peel Energy unveiled a number of possible tidal technologies which it is considering as part of its ‘Power from the Mersey’ project.