We need renewable energy production. Global warming and its
consequences are almost certainly the biggest threat facing mankind at
this moment. Hurrican Katrina is an indication of the sort of problems
we will face.
However should we accept all schemes put to us. Should we accept the
Braan just because a developer says they can make profit under the
current ROCs payments. I think there should be other criteria for what
we do. It may slow the process - or perhaps we should do it better.
In Scotland the Minister states we have enough renewable schemes
approved or in operation to meet our 2010 renewable targets. So we can
pause a little, think and plan. Just one example is wave power. The
economically recoverable resource for the UK alone has been estimated
to be 87TWh per year, or ~25% of current UK electricity demand. A
currently practical Pelamis wave farm could easily give 30mw - just 40
machines, but grants are the same for proven hydro as for new tech
higher risk wave power. The Glendoe Hydro scheme - probably the last
big scheme - will give over 50mw. At least we get something for the
loss. The Braan would give 3.4mw. And we would loose something
special. We do need culture change. Most houses could carry a 1-10kw
windturbine - probably as bad as a satellite dish but worthwhile. We
have many options we have not explored as a society. Rivers like the
Braan are an easy target. I just believe we should think harder and do
better. We certainly need to. I want a viable world for my
grandchildren and their grandchildren. That includes a sustainable
world with its natural treasures - the Braan is one - as intact as we
can preserve them. Currently we are not doing too well.
John Picken. SCA National Access coordinator.