In a significant move towards sustainable energy development, Welsh and UK government officials have inaugurated the Pembroke Dock Marine project.
This £60 million initiative was launched by Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, Prif Weinidog Eluned Morgan and The Rt Hon Jo Stevens MP, the Secretary of State for Wales on August 21, 2024.
According to officials, the development aims to position Wales as a global frontrunner in clean energy innovation.
Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said: “Pembrokeshire’s long heritage of maritime excellence is leading the way for the future of the UK with the launch of this Pembroke Dock Marine programme.
“This is a major step towards us becoming a world leader in zero-carbon marine engineering and tackling climate change for a cleaner, greener, more ambitious future for us all.
“And a future where we see our bold ambitions on growth and jobs for and with every part of the UK go hand in hand with our ambitions on Net Zero and sustainable energy.”
The project, a cornerstone of the Swansea Bay City Deal, represents a collaborative effort between the UK Government, Welsh Government, and the Port of Milford Haven.
It has transformed Pembroke Dock into a cutting-edge, multi-purpose energy hub designed to foster innovation and operational efficiency in the renewable sector.
Key features of the development include state-of-the-art port infrastructure, the establishment of Wales' Marine Energy Test Area (META), and the creation of a Marine Energy Engineering Centre of Excellence.
These facilities are complemented by advancements in the Pembrokeshire Demonstration Zone, collectively driving forward Wales' green energy ambitions.
Prif Weinidog, Eluned Morgan, said: “I would like to thank everyone who has played a part in delivering this important infrastructure project that will be transformative for the region as we grow Wales’ low carbon economy further.
“It is a real example of the benefits of partnership between private sector business and government at local, national and UK level.
“Supported by Welsh Government, it marks an important milestone in our journey towards realising the opportunities of floating offshore wind in the Celtic Sea – and has real potential to generate high quality jobs and support sustainable economic growth.
“It also allows us to continue on our journey of tackling climate change together for a green and prosperous Wales.”
The Pembroke Dock Marine project has already captured the attention of global renewable energy investors and developers.
It serves as a strategic platform for the Milford Haven Energy Cluster and has played a crucial role in securing the successful Celtic Freeport bid.
Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens highlighted the significance of this investment: “For the UK to become a clean energy superpower, we need modernised ports just like this in Pembroke Dock, which will be the backbone of the energy hubs of the future.
“The UK Government is proud to invest in this project. Wales is at the forefront of our ambitions for GB Energy and facilities like Pembroke Dock Marine will contribute to our net zero goals, bringing down energy bills and creating skilled jobs for the people of Pembrokeshire.”
The development is expected to create new opportunities for industrial growth in the region, cementing Pembrokeshire's position as a hub for marine renewable energy innovation.