Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Tidal Energy Generation: Ringfenced Funding

25 November 2021 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Ian Blackford SNP Ross, Skye and Lochaber

ClimateEnergy

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Ian Blackford raised concerns about tidal energy generation: ringfenced funding in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • The MP highlighted the potential of tidal marine energy to contribute 15% of UK electricity capacity by 2030, with a net benefit of 1.4 billion.
  • The Minister announced a ringfenced budget of 20 million for tidal stream developments in the upcoming fourth contract-for-difference allocation round.
  • The Minister noted that over 175 million in innovation funding has been provided since 2004 for tidal stream energy.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Ian Blackford SNP Ross, Skye and Lochaber

The MP highlighted the potential of tidal marine energy in contributing to green baseload electricity generation. He criticised the current government funding of £20 million as insufficient compared to his ask of £71 million. The speech emphasised the industry's potential for job creation, technological leadership, and export opportunities. It also referenced a Royal Society report stating that tidal marine could contribute 15% of UK electricity capacity, with an estimated net benefit of £1.4 billion by 2030 and support for at least 4,000 jobs.

Other contributors (1)

Government Response

Greg Hands

The Minister congratulated Mr. Blackford and acknowledged the potential of tidal stream energy, noting over £175 million in innovation funding since 2004. He announced a ringfenced budget of £20 million for tidal stream developments in pot 2 of the upcoming fourth contract-for-difference allocation round. The Minister emphasised that this would support cost-effective delivery and encourage private investment. While he welcomed Mr. Blackford's change of stance, he disagreed with the suggested need for £71 million funding, asserting that a competitive auction process is more effective for identifying promising projects.

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