The possibility of generating electricity from the River Mersey's tides is a step closer today.
A major study into ways renewable energy could be created by the river to power the region's homes has been completed by The Mersey Tidal Power Project.
The report found that a tidal barrage, tidal power gate, tidal fence or alternative tidal fence are the most suitable options.
The second fence design allows the energy of slow-moving water to be concentrated into an area faster-flowing water.
Now the project leaders - Peel Energy and the Northwest Regional Development Agency - hope to choose a scheme then apply for planning permission in the next two years.
Development Director at Peel, Anthony Hatton, said: "There is a long way to go.
"Our goal is to have a tidal power scheme generating electricity from the Mersey to help generate 15% of the UK’s energy needs from renewable sources by 2020."
When possible sites for any tidal devices have been looked at, the project will assess the best scheme based on its potential impact on the environment, costs and possible effect on the local community.
Last month, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds said any efforts to use the river to generate energy could destroy wildlife habitats if the chosen option was a barrage.
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