Dunstan, Alex (2024) Should Tidal Energy Projects be run by the Public Sector? An Examination of Natural Resources Wales. Masters thesis, University of Wales Trinity Saint David.
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Abstract
This dissertation explores the question, “Should tidal energy projects be run by the public sector?” with a specific focus on the role of Natural Resources Wales in how tidal energy projects can be most effectively managed and developed in Wales. The study uses a mixed-methods approach, by harnessing both quantitative and qualitative research methods to help gain insights into the most effective ways to manage tidal energy projects in Wales. The data was collected through a survey of 100 respondents who had a sufficient knowledge of the tidal energy sector, followed by the use of exploratory factor analysis to identify key trends and elaborative follow-up questions in the survey, to deepen the understanding of participants' views. The findings reveal that a collaborative approach between the public and private sectors is most effective and sustainable way of developing tidal energy projects in Wales. Whilst the private sector can provide necessary funding and technical expertise, the public sector, through institutions like Natural Resources Wales, should play a vital regulatory role to ensure that environmental regulations and standards are upheld. Funding was one of the main driving factors that made private sector intervention necessary, due to the limited public resources in Wales, that has held back Natural Resources Wales in the past. However, respondents consistently emphasised the importance of the public sector maintaining strict environmental regulations to prevent potential harm to biodiversity and marine ecosystems, that could be caused by the profit motive of the private sector. This study concludes that a balanced, collaborative effort, where the private sector contributes through its investment and its technical expertise, under the oversight of public regulatory bodies like Natural Resources Wales, would be the most effective model for tidal energy development in Wales.
| Item Type: | Thesis (Masters) |
|---|---|
| Subjects: | G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > GE Environmental Sciences |
| Divisions: | Theses and Dissertations > Masters Dissertations |
| Depositing User: | Alex Dunstan |
| Date Deposited: | 16 May 2025 10:04 |
| Last Modified: | 16 May 2025 10:36 |
| URI: | https://repository.uwtsd.ac.uk/id/eprint/3714 |
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