The architect behind the London Eye has unveiled a visionary £11 billion proposal to construct a vast tidal power station in the Bristol Channel, aiming to harness the sea's predictable energy to help meet the UK's soaring electricity demands, particularly from the artificial intelligence sector.
A 14-Mile Renewable Energy Arc
Julia Barfield, of Marks Barfield Architects, is part of a consortium proposing the West Somerset Lagoon. The project would see a 14-mile semi-circular barrage built from Minehead to Watchet, utilising the area's immense tidal range. The structure would house 125 underwater turbines with a maximum output of 2.5GW, generating enough electricity to power approximately two million homes.
This output is notably close to the peak capacity expected from the Hinkley Point C nuclear power station situated just 12 miles east. The backers emphasise that tidal power offers a more predictable source of renewable energy compared to wind and solar, and they project the lagoon could have an operational lifespan of 120 years.
Powering the AI Revolution Sustainably
The proposal arrives amid urgent warnings about the UK's future energy needs. The government estimates electricity demand could more than double by 2050, with the explosive growth of AI and data centres being a primary driver. The National Energy System Operator (Neso) predicts electricity demand from data centres alone will treble by 2035.
"If the decision is to go ahead with adopting more and more AI... then it is going to be better with a renewable energy source," stated Julia Barfield. The design team has even suggested that data centres could be housed within the lagoon structure itself, benefiting from cheap seawater cooling systems.
More Than Power: An Iconic Destination
The vision extends far beyond energy generation, aiming to transform the local economy of West Somerset, an area marked by deprivation. The lagoon's crest would feature a public pathway for walkers and cyclists, which local MP Rachel Gilmour believes "will become absolutely iconic."
Additional amenities planned include:
- A water-sports marina and a lido.
- An observation tower.
- Facilities for oyster and mussel farming.
- Floating solar panel arrays.
- A coastal amphitheatre.
The consortium, led by chief executive Aidan Clegg, states it has potential funders ready, but they require clear government support to proceed. A spokesperson for the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero said the government is "open to considering well-developed proposals" that demonstrate value for money.
This latest plan distinguishes itself from past Severn estuary barrage proposals by curving from the coast rather than blocking the entire channel, aiming to minimise environmental impact and avoid key shipping lanes to Bristol and Cardiff.
