Overview
- The 14-mile semi-circular barrage would arc from Minehead to Watchet with 125 underwater turbines and a public path on top.
- Developers estimate about 2.5GW of maximum output, comparable to Hinkley Point C, supplying electricity for roughly two million homes.
- Designers say the site avoids key shipping lanes and protected areas, with plans for a marina, water-sports facilities, floating solar and potential datacentres integrated into the structure.
- The consortium prices the scheme at about £11 billion and claims a 120-year lifespan, arguing lifetime costs could undercut nuclear power.
- Potential investors are interested but want clear government backing, as the energy department signals openness to value-for-money tidal schemes and Neso projects datacentre demand trebling by 2035.