Ysgol Pentraeth pupils on Ynys Môn had an insight into the importance of tidal energy in tackling climate change this week with a visit from the Menter Môn Morlais team. As part of Wales Climate Week, Hannah Thomas and Fiona Parry showed the children how Morlais Tidal Energy would reduce carbon by generating clean electricity and gave them an opportunity to try their hand at designing their own turbines.
Fiona Parry, skills and training project officer at Menter Môn Morlais explained: “We had a fantastic welcome from the children. They were keen to learn more about Morlais and were so enthusiastic as they took part in the activities we had for them – from having a go on our new VR unit to seeing how a turbine works underwater and building a model turbine.”
Hannah Thomas, PR and communications officer, added: “It’s always great to take our message and the Morlais story to schools, it was even more relevant this week as we mark Wales Climate Week. Tidal energy is a key part of how we plan future energy security and reduce our carbon footprint – sharing this with the next generation is so important as it is their future that we are talking about.”
Wales Climate Week aims to encourage a national conversation on climate change. It is an opportunity for stakeholders to discuss how Wales can play its part in tackling climate change. Morlais is seen as being at the heart of these efforts to reduce carbon and reach net zero emissions.
Bringing a practical focus on sustainable energy to the students, the visit provided insights into the realities of climate change and the role of renewable energy. This week’s school visit is a part of a series and is part of a commitment to supporting local communities and developing environmental awareness.
Managed by Menter Môn Morlais Ltd, the Ynys Môn tidal scheme is the largest consented tidal energy site in the UK. Work on the Morlais Substation near Ynys Lawd (South Stack) on Ynys Cybi (Holy Island) is almost complete, and the first turbines are expected to be deployed in the sea in 2026.
The project is part funded by the European Regional Development Fund through the Welsh Government and has also secured funding for consent and development from the Nuclear Restoration Services (previously NDA – Nuclear Decommissioning Authority) and support from the Isle of Anglesey County Council.
