Association pledges support commercialisation of technologies critical to counter climate change

The British Wind Energy Association (BWEA), the UKs largest renewable energy association, will begin to champion the emerging wave and tidal power sector. The Association launched the initiative at its recent joint national conference with Regen SW on wave and tidal power in Bristol.

With more than 300 company members, many of whom have strong interests in marine renewables, the Association has now pledged its support to help the commercialisation of this exciting set of technologies that will be critical in the battle to counter climate change.

The Association has been supported in its new initiative by Greenpeace UK who have part-funded a dedicated full-time member of staff to help the BWEA drive forward its work in this area.

Marcus Rand, CEO of BWEA said: “While wind energy has entered the phase of delivery, wave and tidal power are in the phase of proof. I sincerely hope that with our 25 years of experience and strong membership base, combined with our knowledge and commitment, we can play our part in fast tracking the commercialisation of these exciting new technologies.

The UK has some of the best brains in the best companies working in this area but we will also need the best commercial and political commitment to really make it happen.

BWEA was founded in 1978 as the professional association for the emerging UK wind industry. Now with 25 years experience and over 300 companies active in the sector in membership, BWEA is the UKs largest renewable energy association with a recognized voice in lobbying on behalf of the industry.

There is wide agreement that marine renewable technology is in the position that wind power was several years ago, and that it is likely to experience the same rapid growth over the next few years. This expansion of BWEAs remit will establish the platform which will allow industry players to share experiences and learn from the lessons of the wind sector and its move offshore.

The UK has the best wave and tidal resources in Europe, an asset that has the potential to provide a considerable percentage of power for the domestic market. This natural abundant resource is coupled with a strong history of innovation that has produced some of the leading marine energy companies and devices in the world today.
The conference also saw the launch of a new renewables information campaign by Energy Minister Stephen Timms. ‘Its Only Natural is aimed at informing planners, investors and the wider community of the potential and benefits of renewable energy. Making the announcement, Timms said Our campaign will leave nobody in any doubt that renewables are at the heart of the governments energy policy.

For more information, visit www.bwea.com/marine