Alternative Energy UK: Tidal Power from Guernsey could provide a third of electricity

A tidal power expert believes the sea around Guernsey could hold enough energy to meet a third of the UK's needs.

Professor Peter Smith of Nottingham University has carried out extensive research into tidal power.

He claims Guernsey has a real opportunity to become a major exporter of electricity.

The Channel islands area is thought to be the best location in the British Isles for tidal power.

It is thought tidal energy could also be used to power a desalination plant and replace Guernsey's existing oil power station.

Alderney's States will decide later this month whether to commit to developing wave powered electricity.

It follows six months of research by the Tidal Energy Panel.

The panel believe a relatively small number of tidal generators would be needed, and even hopes cars on the island could be powered by electricity in future.

BBC News Article on UK Tidal Power