But according to the authors of the latest research, 2013 could see a big breakthrough in tidal stream power.

BBC: UK tidal power has huge potential, say scientists

"This is a crucial milestone for us, it will be the first array of tidal stream turbines, " observed report co-author Professor AbuBakr Bahaj from the University of Southampton.

BBC: UK tidal power has huge potential, say scientists

"On top of that there is a 5% tidal stream figure, and with future technological development that is likely to be an underestimate in my view, " he said.

BBC: UK tidal power has huge potential, say scientists

"I am delighted to announce that the Welsh government has granted a Marine Licence for the Skerries Tidal Stream Array project, which moves Wales a step closer to hosting the first scheme of this kind in the UK, " said First Minister Carwyn Jones.

BBC: ?70m tidal power scheme off Anglesey wins approval

Chances of survival for Solero looked grim after he was blown off course in the Gulf Stream and ended up in a tidal pool at Beaumaris, Anglesey.

BBC: News | Wales | Sea urchins may have committed suicide

The Boat Race is unique because it takes place over a course that not only twists and turns - unlike the 2, 000m Olympic course - but does so on tidal water, where the pace of the stream varies, and conditions are never the same from one day to the next.

BBC: SPORT | Other Sport | Boat Race 2003 | Little things count