Abstract
The purpose of this document is to support characterisation of areas in Wales where there is good potential for tidal stream energy projects to prosper. Bringing together technical and environmental knowledge with information on key social, cultural and economic issues and using this to understand future potential opportunities can support and enable the sustainable development of the sector. This SLG provides a relevant evidence base for tidal stream energy developers interested in operating in Welsh waters1, highlighting key considerations and issues that may need to be addressed during project development and licensing processes. It will also inform the ongoing marine planning process. In order to support potential coexistence of multiple uses, the guidance also considers where opportunities may exist for the co-location of tidal stream technologies with other marine activities where potentially beneficial and practical.
The evidence landscape around tidal stream energy continues to develop, and considerations identified in this SLG may change over time. Knowledge gained from the deployment and monitoring of tidal stream energy technologies will also be key to further understanding. With time, this guidance may be developed to provide more specific signposting towards areas considered to be of higher potential for development.
This guidance has been developed in accordance with the Sustainable Development Principle and the five ways of working as set out within the Well-being of Future Generations Act. It is also informed by the Sustainable Management of Marine Natural Resources (SMMNR) principles of the Environment (Wales) Act, and the direction provided by the United Kingdom (UK) Marine Policy Statement to provide a proactive and spatially planned approach to the management of the marine area.