Project to create tidal stream turbine blades in Wales
The Welsh Government has backed the project in a bid to revolutionise the tidal energy industry.
The Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) Cymru, based in Broughton, has teamed up with Menter Mon and the Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult's Welsh team for this initiative.
Their goal is to improve the efficiency and durability of tidal energy blades.
This project is one of five in Wales which received a share of £1 million from the Welsh Government's VInnovate programme, intended to encourage innovative collaborations across industrial regions in Europe.
The project also has the involvement of two Galician firms—marine renewable energy infrastructure manufacturer Magallanes Renovables and research organisation D3 Applied Technologies.
Andy Silcox, interim chief technology officer at the AMRC, said: "Wales is already recognised as a trailblazer in the establishment of tidal energy sites, and a hub for cutting-edge marine energy research, contributing its extensive knowledge and experience.
"This collaboration between AMRC Cymru, the Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult and Menter Mon will create a strategic partnership among the regions of Wales and Galicia, bringing together a unique blend of expertise and innovation in the field of renewable energy.
"Supporting the design and development of the newest tidal turbine blades, the project will lay the groundwork for a lasting collaboration, driving future innovations and projects in renewable energy to contribute to a more sustainable energy landscape."
More projects from Wales received funding in the 2024 VInnovate funding tranche than any other region.
Rebecca Evans, cabinet secretary for economy, energy and planning, said: "Wales' research and development sector is internationally renowned, with academia, industry and government working together to deliver big leaps in renewable energy innovation in particular.
"This culture of innovation has been championed and guided by our Wales Innovates strategy, laying the foundations for a green and prosperous future for Wales driven by collaborative innovation and new technologies that can have a real and lasting positive impact on every part of our society."
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