Over the last three years MARENCO has gained extensive expertise and experience in preparing licensing applications for marine renewable energy devices in Northern Ireland.  Through our close links with Queens University Engineering Department and Marine Laboratory we have facilitated licensing requirements for scale device testing within Strangford Lough.  Our clients include Minesto, Ocean Flow Energy, Queens University Belfast, University of Edinburgh and Heriot-Watt University.  Wave and tidal devices have successfully been tested and a number of projects are on-going to develop these technologies to commercial viability.

Typically MARENCO consults with the NIEA Water Management Unit, Marine Assessment & Licensing Team at the design stages of any individual project to determine the appropriate approach.  In some instances environmental issues are shown to be negligible and a Marine Licence exemption request is submitted.  In other case a full environmental report is submitted along with a Marine Licence application form.  This may be accompanied by ecological or archaeological dive video footage.  In all cases conservation designations and feature species are fully considered in respect of the technology to be tested.  This may lead to environmental monitoring during testing, including marine mammal observation undertaken by suitably trained experts.

In addition to the licensing application process, MARENCO also facilitates consultations with interested parties.  These include Crown Estate, Maritime & Coastguard Agency, Commissioner of Irish Lights, Ferry Operators, Sailing Clubs, and Fishery Agencies etc.  Our local base and relationships with these bodies are essential in ensure any perceived concerns are explained and where necessary project designs amended to the satisfaction of all parties.

All renewable energy project licensing commissions undertaken by MARENCO to-date have resulted in Marine Licences or exemptions being granted.