AI Wildlife Monitoring Announced for 30MW Tidal Energy Project at Morlais in Anglesey
HydroWing signs with Ecodetect for AI monitoring at Morlais. The 30MW Anglesey project deploys 18 devices by 2030 to protect marine life.
HydroWing Ltd has signed a contract with Ecodetect to introduce AI-driven environmental monitoring to its 30MW tidal stream energy project at Morlais in Anglesey. The pioneering scheme, backed by the Welsh and UK governments, will utilise Inyanga’s patented HydroWing technology.
Richard Parkinson, CEO of Inyanga Marine Energy Group, stated: “Tidal energy projects operate in sensitive marine environments.” Ecodetect’s AI-driven monitoring solutions will help us balance performance and environmental responsibility. By continuously detecting marine life interactions and assessing infrastructure activity, we will be able to minimise ecological risks while maximising energy efficiency.
Ecodetect’s system processes data in real time, distinguishing marine wildlife such as seals, dolphins, fish and diving seabirds from seaweed and debris. This allows operators to trigger instant environmental mitigation protocols while building evidence for compliance with UK, EU and international standards.
Dr David Gold, CEO of Ecodetect, added: “Tidal energy will only reach its full potential if it can show it works in harmony with marine life.” Inyanga is already leading the world in tidal stream development. With real-time AI monitoring, it can lead the way on environmental protection too.
The first HydroWing device is set for deployment at Morlais in 2027, with full delivery completed by 2030. The project will deploy 18 tidal energy devices, each generating 1.67 MW of electricity, making it one of the largest tidal stream energy projects in the world.
Andy Billcliff, Chief Executive of Menter Môn Morlais Ltd, said: “The deployment of the HydroWing project will be a key milestone for offshore renewable energy in Wales and the UK.” It is great that the project will embed state-of-the-art environmental monitoring, supplied by Ecodetect, an innovative tech company also based on Anglesey. This is a superb example of local sourcing, which will bring further momentum to the North Wales economy, generating new jobs and social value.
Eli Nathan
Eli Nathan covers Wales news, politics, community stories, and sports for The National Wales (thenational.wales).
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