Power from the Mersey

A giant waterwheel stretching across the River Mersey could be used to generate renewable electricity for the Northwest, according to a new study that identifies the river as one of the top sites for tidal renewable energy in the UK.

Experts say the Mersey estuary’s large tidal range of 8-10 metres and unusual shape combine to create powerful tidal currents that could be harnessed to produce power.

The waterwheel is just one option - the largest of the projects being evaluated, a tidal barrage across the river, would generate 700 MW of electricity, enough to power 260,000 homes and save 516,000 tonnes of CO2 per year.

According to the government’s energy White Paper on the country’s future energy needs, Meeting the Energy Challenge, 'Tidal power could make a significant contribution towards meeting the twin challenges of climate change and security of supply.'

Any project to generate power on the river would also be a major boost to the UK’s position as the world leader in marine renewable energy.