PLANS to develop a tidal turbine array at Strumble Head have been given a £93,600 boost by Arwain Sir Benfro’s LEADER programme.

Fishguard’s Transition Bro Gwaun (TBG) aims to realise the first community owned tidal flow project in Wales.

The proposal would consist of a single device or a small array of tidal turbines deployed at Strumble Head. The project supports TBG's aims to mitigate the community's impact on climate change by providing sustainable and secure energy. It would also bring financial benefits for both local investors and community initiatives.

TGB already has a successful community wind turbine which produced 648000 kwh in its first year.

The LEADER funding for the tidal energy project supports a part-time development officer, and administrator/support worker.

This will enable the community to explore partnerships and secure funding for further technical and environmental studies; the seabed lease; marine licence and to accumulate community capital in the project.

LEADER will also resource fact finding missions, developing wider partnerships and gaining knowledge by visiting sites which are further forward in this new market, or have successfully installed devices.

Development of a community tidal flow device at Strumble would provide a working demonstration of how tidal technology can deliver not only environmental benefit but wider community benefits too. It could also provide a blueprint for other communities across Pembrokeshire to use marine energy.

The LEADER funding is being administered by PLANED. Arwain Sir Benfro is currently inviting submissions of project ideas from local community groups, organisations or businesses.

“To date Arwain Sir Benfro have funded projects amounting to £1.6m and there is further funding and support available now,” said animation and impact officer, Cris Tomos.

“If you have an innovative idea that could benefit your community, you may be able to get funding from the LEADER programme and we would love to hear from you.”

For more information visit www.arwainsirbenfro.cymru or contact Jess or Cris at PLANED on 01834 860965 leader@planed.org.uk