Cyfarfod yr Is-grŵp Cynghori ar Wyddoniaeth a Thystiolaeth: 13 Rhagfyr 2022

Y Grŵp Strategol Cynghori ar Ganiatadau

Yr Is-Grŵp Cynghori ar Wybodaeth a Thystiolaeth

13 Rhagfyr 2022

Jim McKie (Eurona): hwylusydd 
Sharon Davies (LlC – Trwyddedu Morol ac Ysgrifenyddiaeth SEAGP)
Morgan Johnson (LlC – Trwyddedu Morol ac Ysgrifenyddiaeth SEAGP)
Ceri Seaton (Cyfoeth Naturiol Cymru)
Kirsten Ramsey (Cyfoeth Naturiol Cymru)
Ceri Morris (Cyfoeth Naturiol Cymru)
Tom Hill (Ynni’r Môr Cymru) 
Stephen Thompson (Ynni’r Môr Cymru) 
Ben Smith (Yr Ymddiriedolaeth Bywyd Gwyllt)
Jennifer Fox (ORJIP)
Kate Smith (Nova Innovation)
James Orme (Morlais) 
Sue Barr (Cambrian Offshore)

Gwesteion

David Collier (Minesto)

This SEAGP meeting began with a review of the Group’s agreed work-plan with a discussion on the live actions that should be taken forward to the Consenting Strategic Advisory Group (CSAG) for ongoing consideration, as this is the last meeting of SEAGP, which has delivered against its objective. This time-limited Group has advised on the best available evidence emerging from operational tidal stream projects around the world, resulting in the Group delivering a series of technical, topic specific Information Notes to facilitate the consenting of sustainable marine renewable energy projects.  

Following the discussion, Sue Barr of Cambrian Offshore presented on the Ramsey Sound project, providing an update on the monitoring data collected during the operational phase of the device. A question-and-answer session followed, and a constructive discussion was had around how developers can find solutions to and mitigate against risks by working collaboratively and sharing of data.

David Collier of Minesto shared his views on adaptive management in practice and how language used in policy documents and advice can negatively impact investor opportunities for a sector which is recognised as emerging. The views were understood, the language and terminology used in the consenting process requires further consideration. However, the use of adaptive management is considered to be an enabling approach to consenting especially for emerging sectors where the evidence base regarding actual impacts to the marine environment is limited.    

As this was the last meeting of SEAGP, members held a short reflective session on what the Group as achieved since its inception, what worked well and what could be done differently next time. The meeting closed with a commitment to continue discussions at CSAG on the key consenting challenges, including the evidence needs of the sector and with thanks given to all members for their time and positive, constructive engagement throughout the duration of SEAGP.