After the public consultation back in January, EDF is now looking at alternative and less desirable saltmarsh locations after public rejection from residents, environmentalists, and a report from the Environment Agency. The answer to the problem continues to be the Acoustic Fish Deterrent.
Video regarding Salt Marshes
The saltmarsh, while a worthy addition to the existing environmental protections in place at Hinkley Point C, is not a replacement – specifically for the Acoustic Fish Deterrent (AFD). The AFD sits underwater in front of the water intakes to prevent protected and fragile fish from being killed at the rate of 182 million fish per year, according to The Welsh Government.
The Acoustic Fish Deterrent (AFD), which the saltmarsh would replace,
- is a solution that has been in Hinkley Point C’s plans since its approval over a decade ago
- has been scrutinised by The Secretary of State, a full governmental inquiry, and the Welsh Government. It has been proven to be the best option by all of these.
- is UK Environment Agency Best Practice, with the technology used on power plants across the globe
The saltmarsh, which is now being moved to another, potentially less desirable location, does not prevent fish from entering the water intakes, and would not prevent a single fish’s death.
- The saltmarsh breeds more fish. The Acoustic Fish Deterrent stops them being killed.
- Without an AFD, the water intakes for Hinkley Point C would take in water, and kill 182 million fish per year, every year, for the 60+ year life of Hinkley Point C Power Plant.
- The saltmarsh would take land being used for existing purposes. The acoustic fish deterrent is already in the plans for Hinkley Point C and should sit two miles off shore on already installed concrete pads.
Dr David Lambert from Fish Guidance systems: “As both a technology and an environmental company, we believe British-made, proven technology, that has already been scrutinised and found to be the best solution, must be installed at Hinkley Point C.”
“Fish Guidance Systems, along with a large part of the environmental community, and local residents, believe that instead of searching for alternatives to well thought out, existing and approved plans to install the AFD, everyone’s time should be dedicated to delivering the right solution – a solution scrutinised and approved by the government, which is the AFD.”
