WRITTEN BY:
John Idris Jones,
Chair,
Menter Môn Morlais Ltd.
Anglesey's marine energy ambitions are rapidly taking shape, with Morlais at the heart of this transformation.
As chair of Menter Môn Morlais, I am proud to share the progress and future prospects of this pioneering initiative that promises to position Ynys Môn (Anglesey) as a leader in tidal stream energy.
Morlais is centred around a 35-square-kilometre area of sea off the coast near Holyhead, leased from the Crown Estate. This vast marine space has been earmarked for tidal stream energy development, capable of generating up to 240MW of electricity. In 2021, we achieved a significant milestone by obtaining a marine licence, allowing technology developers to deploy their devices in the water.
From 2021 to the end of 2023, we have invested approximately £35 million in essential infrastructure. This investment ensures that tidal stream developers can connect locally to the electricity network, facilitating the integration of renewable energy into the grid. These infrastructure developments are crucial for enabling the deployment and operation of tidal stream technologies.
To date, technology developers associated with Morlais have secured agreements to generate 28MW through Contracts for Difference (CfD) with the UK Government. These agreements are pivotal in providing financial stability and incentives for developers to proceed with their projects. We anticipate that the first tidal stream devices will be deployed in the sea by 2026, marking the beginning of a new era for marine energy on Anglesey.
Our vision for Morlais is a long-term development strategy aimed at accelerating deployment. By 2030 to 2034, we aim to generate 100MW of electricity, with a potential build-out to 240MW by the mid-2030s. Achieving these targets will depend on several key factors, including:
- Financing – Securing the necessary funding for developers to manufacture and deploy their devices is critical. We continue to work with stakeholders to ensure financial mechanisms are in place to support these efforts.
- Regulatory Approval – Ensuring that Natural Resources Wales is confident in the environmental impacts of these technologies. Continuous dialogue and collaboration with regulators are vital to address any environmental concerns and obtain necessary approvals.
The success of the Morlais project also heavily relies on robust government policy and support.
Clear, consistent policies and financial incentives are required to foster confidence among investors and developers. We urge the UK government to continue backing marine energy projects, recognising their potential to contribute significantly to renewable energy targets and economic growth.
With sustained investment, regulatory support, and favourable government policies, we can realise the full potential of tidal stream energy. The journey ahead is promising, and we are committed to making Anglesey a beacon of marine renewable energy innovation.
