Cierco Energy and Marine Power Systems (MPS) have entered a strategic partnership to support the development of deep-water floating offshore wind in the Celtic Sea, the companies announced on Thursday.
The agreement, formalised through a memorandum of understanding, will see MPS’s modular PelaFlex floating platform deployed at one of Cierco’s Llŷr Test and Demonstration projects, located approximately 40km off the coast of Pembrokeshire, Wales.
The partnership combines Cierco’s experience in offshore wind project development with MPS’s technology, which is designed to simplify the construction and deployment of floating wind infrastructure. The PelaFlex platform aims to reduce weight, materials use, and installation timelines, while being compatible with existing UK port infrastructure to support local supply chain participation.
“We are excited to partner with Marine Power Systems as we work towards our shared vision of advancing deep-water offshore wind in the UK,” said Scott Harper, CEO of Cierco Energy. “These pioneering projects will play a vital role in building a resilient supply chain and enhancing investor confidence.”
Cierco said the collaboration will not only advance low-carbon energy generation, but also support economic growth and job creation. “Our commitment extends beyond low-carbon energy; we are dedicated to driving economic growth and creating high-skilled jobs within our communities,” Harper added.
The Llŷr demonstration sites are intended to validate floating wind technology ahead of broader commercial rollout in deeper waters.
Gareth Stockman, CEO of Marine Power Systems, described the agreement as a major step forward. “Collaborating with Cierco on Llŷr is a defining moment for our journey to commercial scale,” he said. “This partnership will expedite our path to market and will provide a real-world showcase of how PelaFlex meets the toughest challenges facing the offshore wind sector—cost, complexity, and scaling deployment in deeper waters.”
Stockman noted the significance of the partnership for Wales. “With our headquarters in Wales, we’re proud this innovation story starts at home,” he said.
The companies said their collaboration aligns with the UK’s net-zero goals and is expected to strengthen regional supply chains.
