Local MP James Heappey joined other South West MPs to lend his support to marine energy industry in a bid to win Ocean Energy Race.
A new report published yesterday has highlighted the potential of South-west based companies in the wave and tidal energy sector.
The new report “Ocean Energy Race”, calls for wave and tidal power to be included in the Government’s Industrial Strategy to ensure that the UK remains at the forefront of marine renewable green advancements. It highlights the latest developments in this cutting-edge sector and demonstrates the value of the marine energy industry to the UK in terms of regional economic growth - providing jobs and attracting millions of pounds in investment.
The report features four “clusters” across the UK which are benefitting most from marine investment, and the South West is one of these, alongside Wales, Isle of Wight and the Solent, and the Highland and Islands of Scotland.
Among the companies in the spotlight from the South West is Wave Hub in Cornwall - the largest, most advanced marine energy site in the world. A&P Falmouth Docks is planning for a £10m growth in marine renewables over the next 5 years. The Universities of Exeter and Plymouth are doing world-leading research work in the development of marine energy, working with local companies.
Mendip Conservative MP James Heappey was joined by fellow South West MPs George Eustice (Camborne) and Richard Graham (Gloucester) to address the gathering at the RenewableUK’s Wave and Tidal Energy Conference in London:
RenewableUK’s Chief Executive Hugh McNeal said: “"It’s vital that the Government recognises that wave and tidal power is transforming coastal communities around the UK, including those in the South West. Marine energy can become a key modern industrial sector. To make this happen, we’re urging Ministers to include wave and tidal power in their Industrial Strategy. We can deliver fresh energy infrastructure on a massive scale, building on Britain’s proud maritime tradition and creating a new clean-tech energy sector”.
Mr. McNeal said that whilst the UK is currently the global leader in wave and tidal energy, other countries, such as China and Canada, are looking to ’capitalise’ on the work made by UK companies.
"We don’t want our groundwork to lead to their success," said Mr. McNeal. "The UK must win the international Ocean Energy Race so that this country can reap the economic benefits of marine energy."