Tidal energy study launched for South Cumbria  

The BBC has a report on yet another tidal power study in the UK - Tidal energy scheme is launched in South Cumbria.

A study to find ways of generating green energy using tidal power has been launched in Cumbria.

Experts think the Duddon Estuary near Barrow can generate enough energy to power 200,000 homes in South Cumbria.

The study will look at how best to harness the tidal power including building a large barrage across the mouth of the river.

It has been backed with grants from the Carbon Challenge Fund and Britain's Energy West Cumbria (BEWC).

BEWC said previous studies suggested that if a new scheme were built in the area, a new road would be constructed, cutting 17 miles off the current journey between Barrow and Millom.

Programme director Stuart Cowperthwaite said: "It is an ideal time to revisit and update the potential for tidal energy generation across the Duddon Estuary."

BEWC have commissioned consultants to undertake a feasibility study to identify the best options for any development because of the recent revival of interest in renewable energy schemes such as tidal barrages.

The launch of the Duddon Estuary feasibility study comes weeks after the publication of the Solway Firth Energy Feasibility Study which identified options for four tidal barrages, two lagoons and three tidal reefs.