Marine energy has the potential to play a significant role in the
decarbonisation of the UK's electricity supply [1] but no form of
generation is without social or environmental impact [2]. While
much research effort has focused on the technological, economic,
and institutional barriers to widespread deployment [1], few
definitive statements can be made as to the social and ecological
impacts of marine energy development, as the majority of devices
are still undergoing commercial tests and vary considerably in
terms of design and operation.