The latest Marine Energy Wales State of the Sector report paints a vibrant picture of growth and innovation in Wales' marine renewable energy sector, with Anglesey and Pembrokeshire leading the charge.
I find it particularly exhilarating to witness the transformation of our coastal communities into hubs of cutting-edge renewable energy innovation. Two major infrastructure projects have been the bedrock of this development, the Morlais substation and testing zone in Anglesey, and the Pembroke Dock Marine project in Pembrokeshire.
Pembroke Dock Marine stands out as a monumental project redefining the economic and technological landscape of Pembrokeshire. This ambitious port redevelopment project encompasses four key sub-projects, each contributing uniquely to the marine energy sector.
Marine Energy Test Area (META):
- Owned and operated by Marine Energy Wales, META is a series of pre-consented zones and test sites. These areas allow developers to test marine energy technologies in real sea conditions, ensuring rigorous environmental and operational evaluations. META is not just limited to established technologies; it has also tested a plethora of innovative systems such as environmental monitoring equipment, scour protection solutions, advanced mooring systems and floating hydrogen production.
Pembroke Dock Port Redevelopments:
- The redevelopment of Pembroke Port is central to accommodating the burgeoning marine energy industry. Key upgrades include a super-sized slipway, additional laydown space, new quayside berths as well as office and storage facilities. These enhancements are designed to support larger deployments and provide the necessary infrastructure for handling cutting-edge marine energy technologies.
Marine Energy Engineering Centre of Excellence (MEECE):
- Managed by the Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult, MEECE is a beacon of innovation and research in Pembrokeshire. This centre supports various aspects of marine energy development, from early-stage innovation to full-scale testing and deployment. Its presence ensures that Pembrokeshire remains at the forefront of marine engineering advancements.
Pembrokeshire Demonstration Zone:
- Developed by Celtic Sea Power, the Pembrokeshire Demonstration Zone is an offshore site providing connection infrastructure for offshore renewable energy projects. The Demonstration Zone aims to develop the first multi-connector offshore substation and use this to support early FLOW and wave colocation projects.
The investments in Anglesey and Pembrokeshire are not just about infrastructure, they are about people and communities. In Pembrokeshire alone, the Pembroke Dock Marine project is driving significant economic growth, creating jobs, and providing new opportunities for the local workforce.
The development of these projects ensures that the benefits of the marine energy sector are felt locally, providing well-paid, green jobs and fostering skills development in coastal areas.
This wave of investment and innovation is particularly inspiring for someone like me, who grew up in Pembrokeshire when such opportunities were scarce. The Pembroke Dock Marine project is not only revitalising our port but also signalling a future where our coastal communities can thrive sustainably.
The future of marine energy in Wales, and particularly in Pembrokeshire, looks incredibly promising. With continued support for infrastructure, innovation, and skills development, Pembrokeshire alongside Anglesey is well-positioned to become a global leader in marine renewable energy.
The potential economic opportunities for Wales as a whole, estimated to reach up to £1 billion over the next five years, underscore the transformative power of these projects.
As we move forward, it is essential to maintain momentum, ensuring that the new UK Government’s proposed bills for Great British Energy and the National Wealth Fund are developed and delivered to support this emerging industry in Wales. The strides we are making today will pave the way for a sustainable, prosperous future for the next generation in Pembrokeshire and beyond.
