Advising Others

Renewable Energy - Marine

For SNH policy on this technology please refer to our Marine Policy section

Because few offshore schemes have as yet come forward in Scotland, the detailed advice which SNH is able to offer is limited. SNH’s general view is that outwith areas of high scenic or marine wildlife value, offshore wave and tidal stream generators may offer the potential to generate electricity with lower impacts on the natural heritage than for land-based renewables. While the highest velocity tidal channels around the Scottish coast are areas of distinctive marine natural heritage interest, there are large areas of Scotland’s waters where tidal movements, though slower than the tide-races, are still strong.

SNH would expect impacts on coastal landscapes, marine natural heritage, and seabird populations to be assessed for all types of offshore developments. SNH is conducting a review of the information available on the natural heritage impacts of offshore generators.

Tidal barrage schemes are however likely to have a high impact on the intertidal zone, which is important for feeding birds. Most of the major Scottish estuaries hold internationally important numbers of wildfowl, and contain land or intertidal areas designated as SPAs or SACs under the EC Birds or Habitats and Species Directives.

Scottish Executive Marine Strategic Environmental Assessment
SNH is working with the Scottish Executive and other key stakeholders on the Strategic Environmental Assessment of offshore wave and tidal technologies in Scotland. For further information on the SEA click here.

COWRIE - offshore windfarms
SNH is also working with partners in COWRIE to develop research into potential impacts from offshore wind farms.

For further information on marine renewables contact George Lees - george.lees@snh.gov.uk