Unlocking Insights: Morlais and The Crown Estate Release Comprehensive Environmental Survey Data

The Marine Characterization Research Project (MCRP), led by Morlais, has gathered a wealth of data that will be available on the Marine Data Exchange (MDE). This platform, created in 2013 by The Crown Estate, collects marine industry survey data to ensure the sustainable use of the seabed while safeguarding the UK’s marine environment.

MCRP compiles over 40 terabytes of information from various sources. This data aims to help researchers, policymakers, and developers improve renewable and tidal energy solutions.

The project includes studies on birds and marine mammals. By centralizing this marine data on the MDE, MCRP hopes to foster collaboration and innovation, benefiting both the UK and the global community in the pursuit of sustainable marine energy.

Helen Roberts, the project manager for MCRP, shared her enthusiasm: “This project is a turning point for tidal energy. Access to organized data is crucial for developers and researchers. With the Marine Data Exchange, we will provide reliable information that boosts our understanding of marine environments and enhances planning and development processes. We aim to fuel the growth of the sector while prioritizing sustainability.”

Mike Dobson, a New Energies Portfolio Manager at The Crown Estate, emphasized the importance of the data: “The UK has a wealth of tidal stream energy resources. Effectively using this renewable energy can help us meet our net-zero targets. Collecting data is essential to understand this emerging technology and its effects on the environment, not just for Morlais but for the entire sector.”

Morlais and the MCRP are closely linked to Menter Môn, a social enterprise located on Anglesey. From the start, they have focused on protecting marine wildlife and local habitats in their development efforts. The data collected through MCRP is vital for ensuring that tidal energy installations are conducted safely.

The first tidal devices from Morlais are expected to be launched in 2026, with ongoing research helping guide their development. Additionally, the MCRP’s findings will be featured in an upcoming report by The Crown Estate that reviews current tidal stream marine monitoring data.

Overall, the support from the Crown Estate and the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority enables MCRP to play a significant role in advancing sustainable energy while protecting our natural ecosystems.