HydroWing recently shared some thrilling news with us! They’ll be raising the targeted installed generation capacity of their Morlais tidal energy project in Anglesey, Wales. The pilot project intends to install a total of 18 HydroWing HW3 tidal energy devices. Each device has a maximum rated capacity of 1.67 megawatts (MW). This tactical deployment makes the Morlais project more likely to succeed. With a planned completion by 2030, it seeks to be the largest tidal energy development in the world.
Construction for Phase 1A of the project, which will include deploying the first HydroWing device, is tentatively set to begin in 2027. Planned as a multi-phase, 8-mile extension of the BRT line, the third phase of the project is not expected to be delivered until 2030! HydroWing is committed to capturing tidal energy on a large industrial scale. This expanded capacity further highlights their commitment to realizing economies of scale.
Project Details and Timeline
Developed by Inyanga Marine Energy Group, the Morlais project pivots around creating a strong local energy grid. It will be a significant source of clean, stable, long-term power for its local community. By integrating the HydroWing HW3 devices, the project aims to help lead the charge toward sustainable energy solutions.
Richard Parkinson, CEO of Inyanga Marine Energy Group, emphasized the significance of this capacity expansion.
“This latest award allows us to focus on economies of scale and drive momentum towards delivering clean and stable power to the grid in Anglesey at an industrial scale.” – Richard Parkinson, CEO of Inyanga Marine Energy Group
This phased approach to deployment minimizes disruption by providing ample opportunities for planning and testing while ensuring that each stage of deployment can focus on their specific goals efficiently. The initial phase will develop the foundation for future phases that will increase capacity and improve the integration of technology.
Community Impact and Collaboration
So, even beyond their goal of providing energy, the project seeks to unify the community through more deliberate collaboration. Menter Môn Morlais plays a leading role in the initiative. Like the UK and Canadian governments, they want their region to be a world leader in tidal stream technology. Andy Billcliff, chief executive of Menter Môn Morlais, said they were excited to have the project on the start line.
“Today’s announcement is fantastic news for our tidal stream project at Morlais, cementing our position at the global forefront of tidal stream technology.” – Andy Billcliff, chief executive of Menter Môn Morlais
Through this collaboration, we are elevating the importance of local engagement and shining a light on how community-driven local projects intersect with global sustainability goals.
Future Perspectives
Plus, it seems to be moving quickly on its way to full build-out by 2030. It creates a new standard for tidal energy projects all over the world. HydroWing’s Morlais project aims to identify and deliver economies of scale, while providing reliable power generation. This approach not only addresses local energy needs but furthers equity and climate priorities.
This ambitious tidal energy initiative will even more successfully position Anglesey as a magnet for creative renewable energy solutions. It will light the way for similar projects across the world.