Environmental analysis news: Government unveils Marine Energy Action Plan

The government has unveiled details of its Marine Energy Action Plan, which could provide enough power for up to 15 million homes by 2050.

Speaking at the launch in Northern Ireland, minister of state for energy Lord Hunt said harnessing the power of the sea will help to cut carbon emissions, provide export opportunities and lead to the creation of thousands of jobs.

"This action plan sets out our vision for what marine energy can do for the UK and what we need to do to make it happen. I look forward to working with industry and other partners to get the most out of our waters and build a new, world-leading energy generation sector in the UK," he commented.

Key recommendations in the plan include forming a UK-wide co-ordination group, building a marine energy supply chain and leveraging private finance.

In related news, energy minister David Kidney earlier this week launched a nationwide skills academy for the power industry at Ratcliffe-on-Soar power station in the East Midlands.

Written by Lauren Steadman