Work will soon begin on site in Holyhead to strengthen the grid connection for the Menter Môn Morlais tidal energy scheme. This is another important milestone for the project, which will see clean low carbon electricity generated off the coast of Anglesey.
Owned and run by social enterprise, Menter Môn, the work on the Cydnerth project at Parc Cybi will future proof Morlais enabling it to progress towards its potential generating capacity of 240 MW. The expansion aims to create new jobs and supply chain opportunities, cementing the region’s position in the tidal energy sector.
Work set to begin in February involves clearing trees to install underground cables to transmit electricity from the Morlais substation near South Stack to the national grid. The land will be restored after construction, including landscaping and replanting trees.
John Idris Jones is chair of the Menter Môn Morlais Ltd, he said: “We welcome this step, which brings us closer to ensuring Ynys Môn can harness more from our natural tidal resources, transforming our area into a sustainable energy hub. The work at Parc Cybi to strengthen the grid connection is a vital part of this process.
“We understand the importance of protecting our local environment and ensuring minimal disruption to the community. The land will be fully restored after the work, and there will be no impact on biodiversity, access to public footpaths or other amenities. As a local company, ensuring the project benefits our communities while respecting the natural landscape is important to us.”
North Wales-based, Jones Bros Civil Engineering UK Ltd has been appointed as the contractor for the work. With its base in Ruthin, the company is committed to employing local people and supporting apprentices from the region.
John Idris Jones added: “The involvement of Jones Bros means that the next phase for Morlais not only delivers vital infrastructure but also provides economic benefits to the local community through jobs and skills development. This has been an important driver for Morlais since the project inception.”
This next phase of Morlais project is supported by Welsh Government and the North Wales Growth Deal.
Morlais is the largest consented tidal energy scheme in Europe. The substation linked to the project was completed in 2023 and the first tidal energy devices are expected to be deployed at sea in 2026.
