Wales forms new marine industry body

Marine Energy Wales has been established to drive forward the development of the marine energy sector in the country.

Marine Energy Wales was launched today, November 8, during the Ocean Energy Europe conference, currently taking place in Brussels.

Evolving from Marine Energy Pembrokeshire, set up in 2010, Marine Energy Wales will bring the industry together, encouraging collaboration and providing support to continue the forward momentum of Welsh marine energy sector.

Ken Skates, Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Infrastructure, said: “The formation of this pan-Wales body to drive forward the industry and encourage collaboration between all the interested parties is very timely and very welcome. We need to ensure we are in pole position to maximize these opportunities, attract investment and create jobs and Marine Energy Wales has an important role to play in helping us achieve this.”

The aim of Marine Energy Wales will be to create a thriving and diverse sustainable marine energy industry which will make a significant contribution to a low carbon economy.

With €100,4 million of EU Structural Funds dedicated to marine energy, two Demonstration Zones, a skilled and experienced supply chain and significant support from Welsh government, Wales could soon lead the world as a significant generator of marine energy and, just as importantly, as an exporter of knowledge, technologies and services, according to Marine Energy Wales.

The Marine Energy Wales board is industry led with current representatives including Carnegie, Marine Power Systems, Minesto, Morlais, Nova Innovation, Tidal Lagoon Power and Wave Hub.