Morlais tidal stream energy project will connect to the national grid and a substation on the shore near Ynys Lawd

The Welsh Government has taken an £8 million equity stake in the Morlais tidal energy project, which is set to become the largest consented tidal scheme in Europe.

Owned by Anglesey-based social enterprise Menter Môn, the Morlais project is expected to be operational from 2026. It aims to generate enough clean energy to power up to 180,000 Welsh homes. The investment will support the Cydnerth phase, strengthening grid connections at Parc Cybi, Holyhead.

The Morlais project covers a 35km2 area off the coast of Anglesey and will facilitate multiple tidal stream energy developers. The scheme operates under a ‘plug and play’ model, enabling developers to connect their tidal energy devices to a shared infrastructure. This approach aims to reduce costs and accelerate the commercialisation of tidal power in Wales.

The project has already secured consent from Natural Resources Wales and has undergone rigorous environmental assessments to ensure minimal impact on marine life. The development will include onshore and offshore infrastructure, including subsea cables and an onshore substation to transfer electricity to the national grid.

Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, Rebecca Evans, said: “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.”

Dafydd Gruffydd, Managing Director of Menter Môn, welcomed the investment: “We welcome the Minister’s announcement, which strengthens our ability to deliver clean energy and local jobs through the Morlais project. This funding supports our vision to position north Wales as a leader in tidal energy innovation, creating opportunities for growth and collaboration across the region.”

John Idris Jones, Chair of Menter Môn Morlais Limited, added: “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.”

The Morlais project provides a ‘plug and play’ model for tidal energy developers, reducing costs and helping scale up clean electricity production. The project is expected to create jobs in the local economy, contribute to net-zero targets, and establish Wales as a leader in the renewable energy sector.