In a pioneering move, the Welsh Government has announced its backing for what will become the largest consented tidal energy project in Europe.
This ambitious initiative, known as the Morlais tidal scheme, is set to revolutionise the renewable energy landscape and put Wales at the forefront of sustainable energy innovation.
Owned and managed by Ynys Môn social enterprise Menter Môn, the Morlais tidal scheme is the first of its kind worldwide. Scheduled to be operational from 2026, the project promises to harness the immense power of tidal energy to generate clean, renewable electricity for the region.
The Welsh Government has demonstrated its commitment to this groundbreaking project by taking an £8 million equity stake. This substantial investment underscores the importance of renewable energy and the government's dedication to driving progress in this sector.
Located in Anglesey, the Morlais site boasts the potential to generate enough energy to power up to 180,000 typical Welsh households. This innovative 'plug and play' model for tidal energy device developers is designed to reduce costs as operations scale up, ensuring a more cost-effective approach to generating clean electricity.

Rebecca Evans, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, commented:
“We want to make Wales a world centre for emerging tidal technologies and we’re off to a good start on several fronts.
“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.”
The investment will also fund the Cydnerth phase of the project, which aims to strengthen the grid connection at Parc Cybi in Holyhead. This crucial phase will enhance the overall efficiency and reliability of the energy produced, ensuring a steady and robust supply of electricity to meet the region's needs.
The Morlais tidal scheme represents a significant step forward in Wales's journey towards a sustainable future. By embracing innovative renewable energy solutions, the Welsh Government is setting a powerful example for other regions and countries to follow.
Image credit: iStock