Alternative Energy - Tidal Power

This system works by using the gravitational pull of the moon, which creates tidal rises and falls, to produce energy. It's not a very common system at the moment, although experts say the Bristol Channel is one of the best sites in the world for such a system.

They believe 5.5% of Britain's electricity could be produced from a tidal power scheme in that area.

Tidal Power generators can be quite expensive to set-up - the costs involved in building such a scheme would be quite high initially, however in the long-term it could enable cheaper electricity.

Environmental concerns are also quite forceful. The disruption to the area and the risk of pollution to the river are a cause for concern, although once up and running, this form of generating electricity is quite safe to the environment.

There is a large-scale tidal power scheme on the River Rance near St Malo in France, which helps produce a considerable amount of electricity. Others in Russia, Canada and China have also been very productive and economical.