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The 20 MW HydroWing tidal array is set to be deployed at Morlais, off the coast of Anglesey, Wales. The Morlais site is one of the largest consented tidal energy zones in Europe, and this contract signals the start of manufacturing for the innovative subsea technology.
Under the agreement, Hutchinson Engineering will build the device's foundation frame and rear nacelle. The scope of work includes welding, painting, and coating the components to withstand the challenging underwater environment. The foundation frame, made of structural steel, will weigh 120 tons and be capable of producing 1.2 MW of energy per unit. Standing 19 metres tall, the nacelle will be constructed to the same rigorous specifications.
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The frame is designed for a 25-year lifespan and will be produced with sustainability in mind, including plans for decommissioning at the end of its operational life. Fabrication will begin at Hutchinson's facility in Cheshire, with final assembly taking place quayside in Wales. The prototype is scheduled for deployment in early 2026.
"Hutchinson Engineering have all the engineering expertise and ingenuity required to turn our innovative tidal stream technology concept into reality," said Richard Parkinson, CEO of Inyanga Marine Energy Group. "The tidal energy scheme at Morlais is the largest of its kind in the world and this is a once in a generation opportunity to prove the full potential of tidal energy, really putting Wales on the map as a global pioneer in renewable energy."
Steve Adams, Managing Director of Hutchinson Engineering, echoed the significance of the project: "We are extremely excited about winning the contract for this groundbreaking project. We pride ourselves on all our fabrications having a positive impact on the world and so this will be a flagship project for us. It is an opportunity to fabricate advanced technology that is expected to become a world leader in tidal energy."
