Wales backs Morlais tidal energy project with almost $10M

The Welsh Government has invested £8 million (around $9,9 million) as an equity stake in the Morlais tidal energy project, set to be the largest tidal scheme in Europe, to support its expansion and strengthen grid connections.

Menter Môn, the social enterprise behind Morlais, is developing the site off the coast of Anglesey, with operations set to begin in 2026.

According to the Welsh government, once fully deployed, the project has the potential to supply power to up to 180,000 households. It offers a “plug and play” model designed to lower costs for tidal technology developers and accelerate commercial-scale deployment.

The latest investment will fund the Cydnerth phase, which includes reinforcing the grid connection at Parc Cybi, Holyhead.

“We want to make Wales a world centre for emerging tidal technologies and we’re off to a good start on several fronts,” said the Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, Rebecca Evans.

“Our investment will support Menter Môn Morlais to scale up capacity, and develop an industrial cluster for tidal energy and innovation in north Wales, whilst delivering jobs and growth through its pioneering technology, keeping the value local. This will further benefit clean energy suppliers of all sizes and position Wales at the forefront of the energy transition.”

Dafydd Gruffydd, Managing Director of Menter Môn, expressed support for the Minister’s announcement, stating that the funding will advance clean energy production and job creation in the region. Gruffydd emphasized that the funding reinforces the vision to establish North Wales as a hub for tidal energy innovation, fostering regional growth and collaboration.

“This funding demonstrates the Welsh Government’s commitment to renewable energy and the significant role tidal power can play in our energy future. By supporting projects like Morlais, we are not only unlocking the potential of our natural resources but also laying the foundation for a resilient, green economy in north Wales,” said John Idris Jones, Chair of Menter Môn Morlais.

In January, the Welsh government introduced its first Strategic Resource Areas (SRAs) for tidal stream energy as part of a broader marine planning initiative. The goal is to drive the sustainable development of marine energy while ensuring environmental protection.

In December, UK-based Inyanga Marine Energy Group unveiled the design of its 20 MW HydroWing tidal energy project, set to be deployed at the Morlais tidal energy site in Wales.