Transition Bro Gwaun (TGB), a local community action group for the Pembrokeshire area, has been awarded a little over £93,000 by Arwain Sir Benfro’s LEADER programme, to develop a tidal-energy project off the coast of South Wales.

The proposal would consist of a single device or a small array of tidal turbines deployed at Strumble Head (pictured). The project supports TBG’s aims to reduce the community’s impact on climate change by providing sustainable and secure energy. It would also bring financial benefits for both local investors and community initiatives.

The funding will enable the community to form partnerships and secure further funding for technical and environmental studies, the sea-bed lease and the marine licence and employ a part-time development officer and administrator/support worker.

TGB already has a successful community wind turbine which produced 648,000kwh in its first year.

Development of a community tidal flow device at Strumble would provide a working demonstration of how tidal technology can deliver not only environmental benefits but wider community benefits and also provide a blueprint for other communities across Pembrokeshire to use marine energy.

Cris Tomos, animation and impact officer, said: “To date Arwain Sir Benfro have funded projects amounting to £1.6 million and there is further funding and support available now.

“If you have an innovative idea that could benefit your community, you may be able to get funding from the LEADER programme and we would love to hear from you.”