The Tide is Turning for marine energy in Wales, but more action is needed.

Tidal energy, with its huge potential to support the UK’s net-zero goals, is still waiting to make its full impact. The resource is there — we have the seabed, we know the power in the tides — but the technology needs to catch up. Morlais in Ynys Môn is leading the way, but it must be the first of many, not the only one. For investors to come forward, the sector must feel stable and low risk. The message at the conference was loud and clear. It needs to feel routine — even dull — because that’s what builds confidence and secures funding.

So how does Wales unlock this exciting opportunity for Wales?

The electricity grid needs to be ready to receive marine energy, but to help make that happen the sector needs to send the right signals to the National Energy System Operator (NESO) about where potential lies, backed by strong evidence and data.

Government action is always key and its hugely encouraging the Welsh Government has already mobilised a dedicated task force together with the announcement by Minister Eluned Morgan of more funding for Natural Resources Wales, alongside a £2 million equity investment in Inyanga Marine Energy Group. It underlines a genuine commitment to the sector — and to the jobs and benefits it can bring to Welsh communities.

Regulation still needs to catch up. The current consenting process — while designed to protect the environment — needs streamlining and modernisation. New tools, like AI, could help, but what’s equally important is using the data we already have in a smarter, more joined-up way.

And all this must be done when bringing stakeholders and communities into the process to build consensus and seek support. Engagement isn’t just about information — it’s about partnership. Local groups and developers working together can help projects land well and go the distance. The Pembrokeshire Marine Engagement Toolkit referenced at the conference shows what’s possible when engagement is done well — locally grounded and creatively delivered.

There’s still a window to get turbines in the water and make real progress. But it depends on moving proactively from planning to action.