A comprehensive feasibility study, to look at the development of a tidal energy project in the River Mersey, has been launched by Peel Energy and the Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA). In a statement, late last month, Peel Energy said that the River Mersey has the potential to make a significant contribution to the Government's target to secure 15% of UK energy from renewable sources by 2020.

Commenting on the announcement Anthony Hatton, Development Director from Peel Energy said: "We are delighted to have launched the next phase of this important project.  The interest and support from all sectors is a true indication of many people's desire to harness the significant energy resource in the Mersey.

"We are confident that the approach being adopted by the team will take into account the important environmental, commercial and public interests in and around the Mersey estuary, supported by regular dialogue with interested parties."

A team led by Scott Wilson, EDF, and Drivers Jonas, and supported by RSK, APEM, HR Wallingford, Regeneris, Turner & Townsend, University of Liverpool and a number of other advisors, has been appointed to undertake the study.

The feasibility study will identify a single preferred tidal power scheme that stands the greatest chance of delivering the maximum affordable energy from the tidal resources in the Mersey Estuary, while taking into consideration its impact on the environment, shipping, business and the community, as well as options for mitigation or compensation.

A number of wider economic and social benefits would be felt, including the development of significant facilities and skills to support the advancement of renewable energy technologies and supply chains; improvements to local infrastructure and the development of a leisure opportunity and tourist attraction.