Sir, The Government’s predicted endorsement of nuclear power, with wind power as the main, green alternative, is the scenario that nuclear proponents hoped for (report, July 12). Wind power presents a much smaller threat to a nuclear future than tidal power and wave power, both of which are much more energy-intensive and are capable of filling the perceived energy gap which wind power alone cannot do.

The Severn tidal barrage, which has been subject to several inquiries, would produce the equivalent of about nine average power stations — about 5 per cent of the UK’s present power supplies. The barrage would also provide protection from tidal surges, which are likely to get worse with global climate change. A similar scheme has been operating successfully near St Malo for 35 years.

Wave power, subject to extreme prejudice by successive governments, is also back on the agenda with a small wave power station off Islay. This year Portugal opens its Pelamis generators, manufactured by the Scottish firm Ocean Delivery, and envisages wave power to provide 20 per cent of its future energy requirements.

It is clear that the Government hopes we will swallow the myth that the only alternatives to fossil fuels are nuclear, with a dash of wind thrown to provide a green figleaf.

PHIL NICHOLSON
Ex-lecturer in nuclear physics,
University of Strathclyde,
Glasgow

Explore Letters

• Feedback