An Anglesey technology company will provide AI-driven environmental monitoring for a tidal stream energy project off the coast of Ynys Môn.
HydroWing Ltd, the tidal energy division of Inyanga Marine Energy Group, has signed a contract with Ecodetect for its project at Morlais.
Ecodetect, which is headquartered at M-SParc in Gaerwen, designs, deploys and operates marine wildlife monitoring systems for offshore renewable energy projects. Its surface and seabed-mounted sensor systems combine underwater cameras and sonar.
The company’s AI processes data as it is collected, distinguishing marine wildlife such as seals, dolphins, fish and diving seabirds from seaweed, debris and algae. The results are relayed in real time so operators can trigger environmental mitigation protocols, and the same data builds the evidence needed to show compliance with UK, EU and international environmental standards.
Richard Parkinson, CEO of Inyanga Marine Energy Group, said: “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.”
Inyanga’s 30MW project at Morlais, which is backed by the Welsh Government and the UK government, will use the company’s patented HydroWing technology. The first HydroWing device is set for deployment in 2027. When the project is completed in 2030, it will have 18 tidal energy devices, each generating 1.67 MW of electricity.
Dr David Gold, CEO of Ecodetect, said: “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.”
Morlais is owned by social enterprise Menter Môn and managed by Menter Môn Morlais Ltd.
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.”
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