Canadian technology provider Big Moon Power has joined a tidal energy project in Anglesey, North Wales, in the UK.
The deal follows on from several visits by Nova Scotia-based Big Moon Power to North Wales and discussions with Morlais, a social enterprise-run demonstration site on the west coast of Anglesey.
Subject to receiving relevant consents the new agreement will enable Big Moon to deploy its tidal energy technology at a commercial scale at the site.
Run by Menter Mon, Morlais has the potential to become one of the largest tidal stream energy sites in the world.
The first stage of the project, which is part funded by the European Regional Development Fund through the Welsh Government, aims to secure consent for the development of the zone.
The second stage will put the necessary infrastructure in place for various developers, such as Big Moon, to implement their devices at the site.
Morlais was first awarded rights to develop the West Anglesey Zone from the Crown Estate in 2014.
Welcoming Big Moon Morlais director Gerallt Llewelyn Jones said: “It is an exciting time to be part of the marine energy sector and we’re really pleased that Big Moon has joined a growing list of developers who are keen to work with us.
“Securing maximum benefit for the community through the project is central to our aims at Morlais and Menter Mon – Big Moon shares this vision, making our partnership an excellent fit.”
Big Moon Power was founded by former Xerox Services president Lynn Blodgett in 2015, with the aim of harnessing tidal power and developing a new and sustainable business model for renewable energy.
Blodgett said: “There are many similarities between the community where we work in Nova Scotia and the community here on Anglesey – and making sure that they benefit from developments such as this is what drives us at Big Moon and Menter Mon.
“For this reason I firmly believe that this is the beginning of a successful partnership as we work to develop and promote the marine energy sector.”
The public will get an opportunity to view the latest plans for Morlais and meet the team at three public information days to be held this month at the Trearddur Bay Hotel, Ucheldre Arts Centre and Holyhead Town Hall.