York rivers identified as potential locations for hydro-power schemes (From York Press)

York rivers identified as potential locations for hydro-power schemes

8:51am Tuesday 9th March 2010 in

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RIVERS in York have been identified as potential locations for schemes which could use hydro-power to provide energy for the city’s homes.

A new study by the Environment Agency (EA) has mapped out almost 26,000 “hotspots” throughout England and Wales which the organisation believes may be suitable for small-scale hydroelectric projects, using turbines to generate electricity from the water.

It has shown the River Ouse at Naburn Lock could be the base for such a scheme, while smaller initiatives could also be installed on stretches of the River Foss.

However, the EA says not all of these sites will ultimately be capable of boasting these schemes, as some could damage the environment or will have constraints such as difficulty accessing electricity grids, while there will also be marine life issues to consider.

But it adds that some of the areas – including York – could present a “win-win” situation by providing a renewable energy source and protecting species of fish.

Andrew Waller, leader of City of York Council, said: “These areas which have been identified are worth looking at further.

“I will be meeting the Environment Agency later this month and will be raising the question of how we may be able to take this forward.

“It’s good that they have done a national review of possible locations, and it fits in with the council’s objectives of improving renewable power generation in the city.”