Welsh Assembly Finance Secretary Mark Drakeford has set out Wales’ ambition to become a leading country in the development of marine energy.

The Minster gave the keynote speech at the Ocean Energy Europe conference and exhibition which took place at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre last week, where the Welsh Government hosted a trade stand and 16 Welsh companies were represented.

Ocean Energy Europe is one of the most important events on Europe’s ocean energy calendar, providing companies with the opportunity to raise their profile and network with key decision-makers, investors and influential entrepreneurs in the sector.

The Finance Secretary said:

“We are striving to make Wales a leading player in the marine energy field with energy generated from waves and the tide playing an important role in our ambitions for a low-carbon economy.

“Our aim is to generate 70% of our energy from renewable sources by 2030. The marine energy sector can play a significant role in helping Wales achieve this target and will be closely aligned with Wales' First National Marine Plan.

“Over the last 18 months, the EU and Welsh Government has invested in a number of marine energy projects, including Morlais Consent, the Marine Energy Test Area in Pembrokeshire, Bombora Wavepower and Marine Power Systems, as well as ongoing support for Marine Energy Wales.

“All this underpins our ambition to build a thriving industry generating well-paid jobs and business opportunities in Wales. We want to continue to attract developers from around the world to our Welsh waters.”