The funds will be used by the port to make dockyard improvements as part of Pembroke Dock Marine, a GB£76m Swansea Bay City Deal project centre for marine energy research and development, fabrication, testing and deployment.
Chief executive, Alec Don, said: “The funding creates vital impetus for Pembroke Port and Pembroke Dock Marine, allowing us to tackle extensive planning legwork now, so that we can hit the road running when the full City Deal funding comes through.”
Pivotal renewables role
The port’s funding is believed to account for 37% of the total project package.
Alongside the port, project partners include Marine Energy Wales, ORE Catapult and Wave Hub.
Mr Don added: “We are committed to making Pembroke Dock Marine a world-leading centre in this fast-growing sector.”
Pembroke Dock Marine creates an opportunity for Pembrokeshire to be at the heart of the developing renewables industry, with a potential market predicted to be worth around €53bn each year.
New opportunities
The project is expected to benefit existing businesses serving the energy industry – who could enter the renewables market, while the link with academic partners could enable school leavers to develop valuable skills to help them secure renewables related employment in the region.
Tim Bownes, engineering director at the port, said: “This is an exciting project that could transform the area and it will bring opportunities for local people and businesses.”
