Marine Energy Wales and National Hydropower Association forge cross-Atlantic partnership to boost marine energy

Marine Energy Wales (MEW) and the National Hydropower Association (NHA) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation within the global marine energy industry.

The agreement seeks to leverage the strengths of each organization to promote industry growth, share expertise, and overcome deployment barriers in Wales and the United States.

MEW is the representative body for the tidal stream, tidal range, floating offshore wind, and wave energy sectors in Wales, while the NHA represents more than 300 companies in the North American water power industry. 

The partnership reflects both organizations’ commitment to advancing marine renewables as part of a secure, cost-effective shift toward net-zero emissions, noted MEW.

Jay Sheppard, Project Manager at Marine Energy Wales said: “We are excited to formalise this partnership with our American counterparts. By combining our expertise, we can share learning on policy development and collaborate on reducing barriers to deployment in the marine renewable energy sector. This agreement marks a pivotal moment in our joint efforts to accelerate progress and create sustainable, long-term solutions for both our nations.”

According to MEW, the signed MoU seeks to foster cross-Atlantic cooperation, recognizing areas for mutual support that can benefit both nations. Under this agreement, MEW and NHA aim to support industry, governmental, and research initiatives to accelerate the development of marine energy.

“This Memorandum of Understanding with Marine Energy Wales marks a significant step forward in the National Hydropower Association’s efforts to drive the commercialization of marine energy through global collaboration,” noted Kelly Rogers, Program Manager at the National Hydropower Association. 

“By partnering with MEW, NHA will be able to leverage more diverse industry insights and resources to tackle barriers that stand in the way of market growth. Together, we’re not only expanding pathways for clean energy deployment but also elevating marine energy as a robust commercial sector that supports sustainable economic growth and resilient energy systems on both sides of the Atlantic.”

In a report by Marine Energy Wales from July, Wales’ marine renewables sector contributed £29.9 million (around $38.4 million) to the Welsh economy in the 2023/24 financial year, which is a notable decline from last year’s £103.4 million, reflecting a slowdown in investment and development.