The Milford Haven Waterway Future Energy Cluster said its pathway will support 20% of the UK’s hydrogen production and 10% of Floating Offshore Wind (FLOW) targets, both outlined in the recent British Energy Security Strategy.

It said it will also support continued utilisation, adaptation and innovation in the Haven will also support the development of low carbon liquid fuels, CO2 shipping, marine renewables and energy storage.

“By the 2040’s the Milford Haven Waterway aims to be a significant exporter of low carbon electricity and hydrogen, and a globally recognised example of a low carbon, smart energy system fully capable of supporting society’s energy needs reliably, cost effectively and with significantly reduced emissions,” said Tom Sawyer, CEO at the Port of Milford Haven.

Energy pathway

The pathway was unveiled at a Westminster launch event on 14 June hosted by  Stephen Crabb, Preseli Pembrokeshire MP.

Milford Haven Waterway Future Energy Cluster is a coalition of energy companies, renewable developers, green technology innovators, Pembrokeshire County Council and the Port of Milford Haven.

Early economic analysis undertaken for the Cluster by Cardiff Business School indicates that its vision could add an additional 3,000 Welsh jobs to the 5,000 already supported by the Milford Haven Waterway energy sector.

To deliver this vision and unlock substantial international private sector investment, the Cluster has called on the UK and Welsh Governments, National Grid, The Crown Estate and OFGEM to support the future success of this critical national energy asset by expanding South Wales’ Grid capacity by 10GW by 2030 and implementing a fast-tracked consenting regime.

The cluster also wants backing for a South Wales Green Freeport bid and support for its Milford Haven Waterway SuperPlace ambition, which will include the provision of both blue and green hydrogen and incentivisation for the production and use of low carbon fuels