North Wales tidal energy project, Morlais, has reached the final in the prestigious Constructing Excellence Awards, to be held in London on November 15. After winning both the Climate Action and Infrastructure Project of the Year in the preliminary round, Morlais is now set to represent Wales on a UK stage, competing against major construction and infrastructure projects.
Managed by Anglesey-based social enterprise Menter Môn Morlais Ltd, the scheme is the only renewable energy project to reach the final and is one of only two projects from north Wales. Morlais already stands out as Europe’s largest consented tidal stream electricity initiative with a potential generating capacity of 240MW. Once operational it will use tidal currents off the coast of Ynys Môn (Anglesey) to produce renewable electricity, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and supporting local jobs and economic growth.
John Idris Jones, Chair of the Morlais Board, will attend the event this week with members of the Morlais team, he said: “We are thrilled to have reached the finals of the Constructing Excellence Awards 2024. This recognition underlines the impact Morlais can have as a sustainable development. We are excited to represent Ynys Môn and Wales in London, and we hope to inspire others with our commitment to a greener future and to creating economic opportunities which benefit our local communities.”
He added: “Our partnership with Jones Bros Civil Engineering UK is part of this vision to create a sustainable economy in north Wales – as we support local companies to deliver jobs and training across the region. Jones Bros is a respected well-established family business that has delivered our landmark substation thanks to their innovation, efficiency, and experience.”
Huw Jones MBE, chairman of Jones Bros, shared his excitement: “Reaching the UK final for Infrastructure Project of the Year is a fantastic achievement for our business and the partnership with Menter Môn. This recognition from CEW is a testament to the exceptional teamwork and dedication that went into making the project a success. We are proud to have contributed to such a groundbreaking initiative and to be attending this event.”
With the UK finals just days away, the Morlais team looks forward to showcasing their innovative approach to tidal energy at the gala event in central London and to highlighting the project’s positive impact on renewable energy and community development.
