The Normandy Summit invited representatives from Alderney to discuss tourism, tidal energy, and how to tighten cultural ties.
Edward Hill, Vice-Chair of Policy & Finance, Bill Abel, Chair of the Marine & Energy Working Group, and James Robinson, Head of Operations attended the summit, which was held in Caen earlier this month.
They joined representatives from across Normandy, La Manche, and the Channel Islands as they discussed the future of Normandy as it nears the Norman Millennium.
Mr Hill said: “The summit provided an important opportunity for Alderney to engage directly with our neighbours in Normandy and La Manche on issues where we have a strong shared interest.”
Alderney’s potential for energy generation
A key topic on the agenda for Alderney was its potential for harnessing renewable energy from the tides.
Mr Hill outlined the progress being made on Alderney’s Marine Spatial Plan, which will provide the necessary policy framework for the responsible development and management of the island’s territorial waters.
The plannning process will recognise the importance of Alderney’s marine environment and its internationally important gannet site.
Studies show that Alderney’s waters could be viable for generating around 1.5 gigawatts of offshore wind energy and 1.5 gigawatts of energy from within the water.
“Alderney has considerable potential in both offshore wind and tidal energy, and the work we are undertaking through our Marine Spatial Plan is helping us better understand those opportunities while ensuring our marine environment and existing users of our waters are properly considered,” Mr Hill explained.
“Realising that potential will require strong regional relationships and continued cooperation, particularly with our closest neighbours in France.
“Discussions such as these allow us to share our ambitions, understand the work taking place around us and explore how we can work together in the years ahead.”
Excitement for the Norman Millenium
Alderney was also able to share its contribution to the upcoming Year of the Norman, celebrating 1,0000 years since the birth of William the Conqueror in 2027.
There will be the Alderney Bayeux Tapestry Finale and a Norman Island Trail, among other events and existing festivals embracing a Norman theme.
Mr Hill added: “It was also extremely positive to share Alderney’s plans for the 2027 Norman Millenium. The island has embraced the opportunity to celebrate its Norman heritage, with events and activities planned across the year.
“We look forward to welcoming visitors from Normandy and further afield to join those celebrations, which will provide an opportunity both to explore our shared history and to reinforce the close relationship Alderney continues to have with its Norman neighbours.”
