Tidal-lagoon power is the way forward

THE various elements of the proposed South Wales Metro project must consider using renewable energy – such as electric battery power and hydrogen fuel cells power systems.

The overhead electric power lines proposed for the rail network are already considered to be out-of-date, and far too expensive.

Renewable energy from tidal power – such as the Swansea Bay tidal lagoon project – would be a good step on the way to enabling the UK to becoming energy independent.

We currently rely on some EU countries – such as France and Germany – to supply us with emergency electricity (via power cables on the sea bed, in the English Channel and North Sea). It is not inconceivable that, after Brexit, this emergency energy supply might be compromised.

The Swansea Bay tidal lagoon would be a prototype for other tidal lagoons. However, there is another good reason for developing tidal lagoons and tidal barriers.

Namely, reducing coastal erosion – caused by global warming and subsequent sea-level rising and increasing frequency and severity of storms. Global warming will have a major impact on the environment, and the survival of humankind. Well-designed tidal lagoons and barriers could reduce the impact.

Over the lifetime of a tidal lagoon, or tidal barrier, there will be a need to modify them – in terms of their shape and size, and upgrading their turbines. The cost of manufacturing turbines will decrease. It is likely that, in the future, the manufacturing of turbines for generating electricity will be done using industrial 3D printers. It is also likely that the 3D printing will incorporate nanotechnologies in the components of the turbines. These technologies will make the turbines far more efficient in terms of generating electricity – and consequently cheaper electricity.

A decision on the Swansea Bay tidal lagoon electricity-generating station must be made as soon as possible. This project is far more important than any of the proposed high-speed train projects.

In general, these high-speed train projects have no substantive relevance to the future prosperity and wellbeing of the UK. Renewable energy does. Brian Hayes Bassaleg, Newport