Dubbed a once-in-a-generation opportunity to prove the full potential of tidal energy, the 20 MW HydroWing tidal energy array will put Wales on the map as a global pioneer in renewable energy.
Being deployed at Morlais off Anglesey in Wales, it is one of the largest consented tidal energy projects in Europe.
The Inyanga Marine Energy Group, at the forefront of the fast-growing global marine renewables industry, has awarded the fabrication contract for building its HydroWing tidal energy device to Hutchinson Engineering.
The contract with Hutchinson Engineering covers the fabrication of the foundation frame and the rear nacelle, including welding, painting, and coating to a specification capable of withstanding the harsh underwater environment. The foundation frame will weigh 120 tons, with an energy yield of 1.2 MW from a single unit. The nacelle is 19 metres high. Made of structural steel, the foundation frame will have a lifespan of 25 years and will be manufactured with full consideration of sustainability, including decommissioning at the end of its lifespan.
The foundation frame will be partly constructed at Hutchinson Engineering’s factory in Cheshire, with the final construction taking place on the quayside in Wales. This tidal energy prototype will be positioned on the seabed during the first quarter of 2026.
Engineering expertise
Richard Parkinson, CEO of Inyanga Marine Energy Group, said: “Hutchinson Engineering has all the engineering expertise and ingenuity required to turn our innovative tidal stream technology concept into reality. The tidal energy scheme at Morlais is the largest of its kind in the world, and this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to prove the full potential of tidal energy, really putting Wales on the map as a global pioneer in renewable energy.”
Steve Adams, MD of Hutchinson Engineering, said: “We are extremely excited about winning the contract for this groundbreaking project. We pride ourselves on all our fabrications having a positive impact on the world, and so this will be a flagship project for us. It is an opportunity to fabricate advanced technology that is expected to become a world leader in tidal energy.”
Andy Billcliff, CEO of Menter Mon Morlais, added: “The award of the first fabrication contract is a significant milestone in our exciting journey to deliver tidal energy at Morlais, providing economic and sustainability benefits for Wales and the UK, as well as demonstrating the global commercial viability of tidal energy.”
At the beginning of May, the Welsh Government announced a £2 million equity investment in Inyanga Marine Energy Group. This was part of a wider funding round by Inyanga Marine Energy Group, which is also progressing projects in France, Southeast Asia, and Canada.
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