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Experience of public acceptability in relation to both wave and tidal energy is very limited so far, with the biggest challenge being to improve public knowledge about ocean energy. Opinion polls show that more than 90 per cent of the British population are in favour of renewable energy (source:
Attitudes and Knowledge of Renewable Energy Amongst the General Public – Report of Findings), but developers cannot presume acceptance for individual projects. There is reason to believe that ocean renewable energies may become equally accepted, or even more popular, than wind energy, as a particular advantage of offshore renewables is their lower visual impact.Devices could act as coastal protection or change the flow patterns of sediment, which would require sensitive site selection.
Devices could attract and promote marine biodiversity.
Any noise intrusion would come primarily from the Wells turbines of shoreline/near-shore oscillating water columns. However, these can be soundproofed and would in part be masked by natural background noise at the shoreline.
Adequate visual and radar warning devices can be built into most wave power machines.
There may be some impacts associated with the line required to transmit electricity to shore and to the grid.