Backing for a tidal lagoon in Swansea could “unleash an economic revolution”, the Welsh Conservatives have said. They have urged party colleagues in the UK government to give the energy project the go-ahead amid expectations ministers are about to pull the plug. Ministers have said the £1.3bn scheme must prove it is value for money. South Wales West AM Suzy Davies said real value for money would be delivered as the UK could become the “undisputed” global centre for expertise. The project was backed in January 2017 by an independent review set up by the UK government, but ministers have not yet approved it, warning that the energy produced would cost a lot more than nuclear power. Mrs Davies claimed tidal lagoon power was no longer set to be so expensive, and would be a major boost to the Welsh economy. “The tidal lagoon is an opportunity to unleash an economic revolution in Wales, on a scale not seen since the regeneration of Cardiff Bay,” she said.
BBC 24th June 2018 read more »
MPs will tomorrow question the energy minister over delays to a £1.3bn tidal power project in south Wales. The business and Welsh affairs committees will quiz Claire Perry about the failure to make a decision over the Swansea tidal lagoon after five years of talks. The plan, backed by David Stevens, boss of insurer Admiral, and Richard Reed of Innocent Drinks, needs big subsidies.
Times 24th June 2018 read more »