Marine Energy Testing Area (META)

Project summary:  

Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum (PCF) had LEADER funding for two linked feasibility studies that investigated the possibility of developing a Marine Energy Testing Area (META) in Pembroke Dock. One study focused on the establishment of a local supply chain and the other looked at possibilities for inward investment and development of new marine technologies.

Networking events were held to bring potential suppliers together, including strategic bodies such as Natural Resources Wales and Welsh Government, and lessons were shared from a Scottish META in Orkney. 

There was overwhelming support for the proposals posed by the supply chain study, with more than 50 local suppliers wishing to be involved, from caterers to steel fabricators. 

What happened: 

Wave and tidal energy are an untapped resource in Wales that have enormous potential for supplying our energy needs. 
The META aims to lease an area of the sea and sea bed from the Crown Estate to test small scale innovative devices, since there is not yet a single standardised technology. So testing is needed to determine which devices will prove to set the standard. These devices will need to be economically viable with low environmental impact and high energy output. 
Maritime ecologists are involved in the project to safeguard marine mammals and other wildlife. 
The developers are expected to come from all around the world to test different types of devices, all of which will be manufactured locally. An Australian firm of wave energy developers has already relocated to Pembroke Dock and secured £4m in EU funds, employing 30 local people to develop prototypes. Clearly, the META has great potential to support the economy of Pembrokeshire, creating sustainable and highly paid jobs. 

The META is just one part of a bigger marine energy project in Pembroke Dock that includes proposals for a linked Marine Energy Centre of Excellence. This will teach higher education level engineering skills to local young people and offer them good career opportunities in the county.  

PCF are excited about the potential for developing an economic sector in Pembrokeshire on a par with the great ship building of the past. They aim to put Pembrokeshire on the global map when it comes to developing marine energy, while creating careers for young people in the county and growing the local economy. 
The evidence gathered in the feasibility studies gave PCF confidence to apply for further investment from EU Structural Funds for renewables in Wales. They secured £3m to develop the next stage of the project, with backing from Swansea Bay City Region Deal and matching private investment. This will expand the staffing at PCF, creating 4.25 fte jobs in a five-year project. This phase will include work with schools and young people, inspiring them to train in engineering and be part of an innovative large scale renewable energy solution for the future.