2026, ABPmer and The Crown Estate, The Crown Estate Research, Data Transferability in Tidal Stream Consenting: Practical Tools for Faster, Smarter Decisions

A workshop was held by The Crown Estate, supported by ABPmer, at the Marine Energy Wales (MEW) conference on 28 April 2026. The workshop aimed to test the usability and practicality of using the data transferability matrix with a diverse range of stakeholders. A key objective of the workshop was to allow participants to share views and explore how transferability judgements might vary across individuals and stakeholder groups, and identify where additional guidance or future refinement of the matrix might be beneficial. The transferability matrix is designed as a structured tool to assess how existing environmental data can be applied to new tidal stream projects, to accelerate consenting. It aims to support discussion, helping users identify where evidence may be useful, where uncertainty remains, and where additional data may be required. Final judgements rely on professional interpretation and are typically resolved through discussion, with the matrix providing a structured basis to support and inform those conversations.