Welsh specialist marine engineering firm Mainstay Marine Solutions are set to undertake refit and fabrications works for QED Naval’s SubHub platform.
The platform is a submersible, gravity based, foundation platform that supports the commissioning, testing, transportation, and installation of an array of wave and tidal turbines to the seabed.
Mainstay managing director Stewart Graves said: “Mainstay is thrilled to have been awarded this work with QED Naval.
“The SubHub crossbeam fabrication and refit works will be our fifth marine energy device project to date.
“It is becoming ever apparent that not only do we have the infrastructure, waterside facilities and marine engineering capabilities to support this innovative sector, it is also our in-depth understanding of these very complex marine environments which set us apart.”
Traditionally, steel and aluminium workboat builders, Mainstay Marine successfully diversified into the marine energy world in 2014 and has completed one Tidal and three Wave Energy devices to date.
QED Naval will be establishing an operational base at Mainstay as a result of the contract and part of a long- term strategy to establish supply chain links and develop tidal farms in Wales.
QED’s managing director Jeremy Smith said: “This is a great opportunity for QED to help showcase and develop tidal energy solutions and for Wales to extend its presence and lead in the sector.”
Mainstay has recently delivered two out of five 15m river barges for the UK’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and is completing the ‘main frame’ and ‘Power Take Off Unit’ for Bombora’s Wave Energy device.
The launching of the device is expected from Mainstay’s slipway in the Spring.