News that the Marine Management Organisation has given approval for a state-of-the-art tidal energy generation project off the Island has been welcomed by Isle of Wight council leader, Jonathan Bacon.
The offshore element of the Perpetuus Tidal Energy Centre (PTEC), which will be constructed off St Catherine’s Point, promises to become a world leader in large-scale tidal power production.
Will bring many benefits to the Island’s economy
Cllr Jonathan Bacon, said:
“This is good news; putting the Island at the forefront of green energy production and development in England and Wales. Perpetuus Tidal Energy Centre (PTEC) will bring many benefits to the Island’s economy and residents by way of the creation of local jobs, but also to the UK more widely. It will also provide clean, renewable tidal energy. As an Island our tidal streams are a powerful resource to cultivate.
“I am pleased that as part of the consenting process, environmental considerations such as visual appearance, commercial fishing and sailing have been taken into account by the Marine Management Organisation following significant consultation with key stakeholders and statutory consultees, including Natural England and the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) Partnership.
“I know the PTEC team will continue to work alongside the key stakeholders during the next phases of the project, including those who use the area for fishing in order to minimise any impact on them and also discuss potential business opportunities for them.”
Onshore element also approved
In June 2015, the Isle of Wight planning committee approved plans for the onshore element of the project at Flowersbrook.
