16 Mar 2010 11:03:08

Marine energy may create power for 15m homes

A new report from the government has suggested that marine energy holds the key to the UK's low carbon transition.

The Marine Energy Action Plan has laid out proposals to harness marine renewables and create thousands of new jobs in the sector.

Recommendations include developing guidelines for new technologies and establishing a nationwide group to strategically coordinate the industry.

It is thought that electricity generated through marine energy could provide power to 15 million homes in the UK and save up to 70 million tonnes of carbon.

The sector could also create some 16,000 new jobs.

Energy minister Lord Hunt said: "Harnessing the power of our seas will help us reduce our carbon emissions, provide clean, green, secure and reliable energy, create jobs and provide export opportunities.

"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."

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