Nova sets up shop in Wales. Makes new appointment

Nova Innovation’s tidal turbine being installed off Shetland (Photo: Nova Innovation)

 
Scottish tidal energy developer Nova Innovation has expanded its activities in Wales and appointed Kate Smith to the role of Environmental Manager.

Nova has opened a new office at the Galeri community enterprise center in Caernarfon. The company has already established presence in Wales, in the Pembroke Dock-based Marine Energy Hub.

Kate Smith (Photo: Nova Innovation)

The opening of Nova’s Caernarfon office and the appointment of Kate Smith signal the start of Nova’s growth in Wales, which is being supported by £265,000 in funding from the Cronfa Cymunedau’r Arfordir (Coastal Communities Fund), the company said.

Smith will also be involved in several research projects to improve the technical and environmental evidence base for tidal devices and arrays, according to Nova.

Simon Forrest, CEO Nova Innovation, said: “Our commitment to sustainable development, local investment and supply chain sourcing is at the heart of Nova’s vision. We’re all about community, creativity and enterprise, so Galeri is a natural choice for us in North Wales.”

In Wales, Nova is working with community group YnNi Llŷn to deliver a 1MW project at Bardsey Island off the Llyn Peninsula, and also has a secured berth in the Morlais tidal energy site off Anglesey.